RAIWAND: PML (N) Quaid, Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has called upon the
international community not to ignore the tremendous sacrifices rendered by
the people of Pakistan in the course of combating militancy and terrorism and
instead show understanding and appreciation for the country’s efforts.
The PML (N) leader made this remark during the course of the courtesy call
on him by. David Miliband, the former British Foreign Secretary, in Raiwind, on
Saturday. In this context, Mr. Nawaz Sharif emphasized his own and his Party’s
strong and consistent opposition to all acts of militancy and extremism,
especially as there was no place for violence or terrorism in Islam. It was
however important to understand the complex geo-political, social and economic
factors that have contributed to a culture of violence, not only in Pakistan,
but the world over. Nawaz Sharif termed Miliband as a friend of Pakistan and
recounted that during his term of office he had played a leading role in
promoting political and economic ties between the two countries. He added that
in view of Britain’s historic relationship with this region, it was well placed
to play an important role in promoting dialogue and understanding amongst
countries and peoples, so as to strengthen the forces of peace and harmony.
While expressing his thanks and deep appreciation to Nawaz Sharif for his
warmth and friendship and his strong support for close and cooperative ties
between their countries, Miliband acknowledged the critical role played by
Pakistan in the struggle against militancy and terrorism. He stressed that the
international community needed to do more to assist Pakistan in these difficult
times. He also expressed his admiration to Mr. Nawaz Sharif for his vigorous
efforts to strengthen democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan. The meeting
was also attended by the Chief Minister of the Punjab, Shahbaz Sharif, as well
as senior PML (N) leaders Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and Ishaq Dar. Online
