PM stresses peace in meeting with committees

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said Thursday establishing peace, protection of life and property of the people were the top priorities of his government.

In his meeting with members of the government and Taliban committees, Prime Minister Shairf stressed that Pakistan could not progress and develop without peace. The prime minister told the committees that Pakistan had paid a heavy price for violence and terrorism and it was now vital to restore peace so the country’s stature in the world can be restored.

“I will not shy away from discharging my responsibilities,” the prime minister said.

Maulana Samiul Haq while lauding the prime minister’s commitment for a peaceful resolution said members of the committee stood with the government in this regard.

He agreed with the Prime Minister that a new strategy was needed to make the decision-making process effective in the next phase.

Maulana Samiul Haq said with the personal guidance, interest and sincerity of the Prime Minister, the situation would soon improve and with Allah’s blessing there would be peace in the country.

Earlier the coordinator of the government committee and Special Advisor to the Prime Minister Irfan Siddique briefed the Prime Minister about the meeting of the two committees held on Wednesday in Akora Khattak.

The meeting was attended by members of the Taliban Committee; Maulana Samiul Haq, Professor Muhammad Ibrahim and Maulana Mohammad Yousaf, while those from the government committee included Irfan Siddque, Major (Retired) Aamir, Rustam Shah Mohmand and Rahimullah Yousafzai. Interior Minister Ch. Nisar was also present.

Following the meeting Maulana Sami-ul-Haq the leader of the Taliban nominated negotiating committee told journalists that a unanimous decision had been taken regarding a new strategy for peace talks to continue.

He added that matters have reached a level where, without the inclusion of authoritative circles the talks could not move forward.

Sami further said that members from both committees will go to Waziristan to hold discussions with the Taliban Shura (council).

Maulana Sami-ul-Haq said both sides need to enhance mutual cooperation to unearth the elements bent upon sabotaging the dialogue process through violence.

The Leader of the Taliban committee expressed his optimism that the issue would be resolved through dialogue.