Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced on Friday that his party would participate in the upcoming All Parties Conference (APC). This conference, organized by the government, aims to discuss Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, a renewed national campaign against terrorism.
Background of Operation Azm-i-Istehkam
- Announced by: The Central Apex Committee on the National Action Plan.
- Objective: To decisively defeat terrorism and extremism in Pakistan.
- Approach: The operation will utilize military, diplomatic, legislative, and socio-economic tools.
Historical Context of Counter-Terrorism Operations
- Operation Zarb-i-Azb (2014): Launched by General Raheel Sharif to combat militants in North Waziristan.
- Operation Raddul Fasaad (2017): General Qamar Javed Bajwa initiated to eliminate remaining terrorist threats.
Note: While these past operations achieved some success in reducing terrorist activities and eliminating key targets, they did not completely eradicate militancy in the country.
PTI’s Stance on the APC
- Announcement: through Imran Khan, PTI expressed readiness to participate in the APC to listen to the government’s position on Operation Azm-i-Istehkam.
- Concerns: Imran Khan mentioned that PTI has concerns about the operation, fearing it might increase instability in Pakistan.
- Commitment: Despite reservations, PTI will join the APC for the sake of national interest.
Government and Opposition Reactions
Government’s View:
- Information Minister Attaullah Tarar:
- Consultations: Ongoing talks with allies about the APC.
- Hope: Expressed optimism that Imran Khan will maintain his stance on participation, emphasizing the importance of including all political parties in the discussion.
- Defence Minister Khawaja Asif:
- Welcome: Welcomed PTI’s decision to join the APC.
- Past Invitations: Noted that PTI was invited to talks previously and appreciated their current willingness to engage.
- Importance: Stressed that national security issues should unite all political parties beyond their differences.
Opposition’s View:
- PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari:
- Participation: Confirmed PPP’s attendance at the APC.
- Focus: Will highlight Balochistan’s perspective on terrorism.
- Consensus: Emphasized the need for a unified approach to effectively address terrorism.
Looking Ahead
The APC is seen as a crucial step towards forming a unified national strategy against terrorism. With major political parties, including PTI and PPP, agreeing to participate, the conference aims to address security challenges and build a consensus on combating terrorism. (national security issues)
Key Quotes:
- Imran Khan: “The rule of law is a public issue. We will take part in APC for the country.”
- Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari: “We need to form a consensus to effectively deal with these issues.”
Source:
- Dawn. (2024, July 5). PTI to take part in All Parties Conference for country’s sake: Imran.
Conclusion
The participation of PTI in the All Parties Conference marks a significant step towards addressing terrorism in Pakistan. By bringing together different political voices, the APC seeks to create a comprehensive and united approach to national security.
