Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: The National Security Committee (NSC) of Pakistan on Monday reiterated its resolve to exercise zero tolerance for the menace of terrorism in Pakistan and reaffirmed its determination to take on all entities that resort to violence. The forum reaffirmed that the menace would be dealt with the state’s full force.
NSC maintained that the security of Pakistan is uncompromisable and the complete writ of the state will be maintained on every inch of the country’s territory.
The 40th meeting of NSC was concluded under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The session was attended by relevant Federal Cabinet members, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), all Services Chiefs, and heads of intelligence services.
The meeting underscored that comprehensive ‘National Security’ revolves around the country’s economic security, and that dignity or sovereignty comes under stress without self-sufficiency and economic integrity.
NSC reviews economic situation
The forum comprehensively reviewed the current economic situation and challenges being faced by the ordinary people of Pakistan, especially the lower and middle-income groups.
Finance minister Ishaq Dar briefed the forum about the economic stability roadmap of the government, including the status of talks with international financial organizations, exploring other financial avenues based on mutual interests, and relief measures for ordinary people.
In order to strengthen the economy, the forum agreed on undertaking concrete steps, including import rationalization and preventing illegal currency outflows and hawala business. Emphasis will be made on improving agricultural output and the manufacturing sector to ensure food security, import substitution, and employment.
It was resolved that people-centric economic policies with trickle-down effects on common people would remain a priority. The forum also agreed to involve all stakeholders for consensus to realize effective and fast-track economic recovery and road map.
NSC resolves to rehabilitate flood affectees
While considering the efforts to mitigate the challenges of 33 Million flood affectees, the forum resolved to mobilize all available resources for their rehabilitation and reconstruction in coordination with the multilateral financial institutions and provincial governments. Forum also appreciated the ongoing relief efforts led by the Prime Minister and federating units.
The committee was also apprised of the country’s security situation, focusing on recent terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Prime Minister emphasized that federal and provincial governments will lead the war against terrorism as per National Action Plan as per the National Internal Security Policy with people-centric socio-economic development as a priority.
At the same time, Armed Forces will provide resolute deterrence and a secure conducive, and enabling environment. Provincial Apex Committees are being revived in full earnest, and LEAs, especially CTDs, will be brought up to the required fighting standards with requisite capabilities.
The forum concluded that no country would be allowed to provide sanctuaries and facilitation to terrorists, and Pakistan reserves all rights regarding safeguarding her people.
