By Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized at the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Astana that condemning terrorism unequivocally is crucial, affirming that eradicating militancy is essential for economic progress. He stressed the need for a united and thorough approach in combating terrorism, regardless of its perpetrators—be they individuals, groups, or states.
Addressing the summit attended by India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance on alleged terrorism sponsorship by its neighbor. Recently, Pakistani security forces made significant arrests within the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), with one detainee reportedly disclosing Indian financial support for militants operating in Pakistan.
Highlighting longstanding tensions, Sharif referenced the capture of Kulbhushan Yadav, an alleged Indian spy held in Pakistan since 2016, accused of supporting terrorism in Balochistan. He cited international reports, including from The Guardian, alleging Indian government involvement in targeted operations on Pakistani soil.
Sharif called for a unified global stance against terrorism, condemning all forms of violence unequivocally and urging the summit to adopt a collective strategy to combat this threat comprehensively. He emphasized the imperative of not politicizing terrorism or justifying the loss of innocent lives.
