Islamabad: Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry has emphasized the government's commitment to incorporating input from all political parties, especially the opposition, in shaping the nation's policies in light of the current regional challenges. Speaking in the National Assembly, he addressed concerns raised by various members on this matter.
According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended an invitation to the opposition for a crucial briefing focusing on regional issues concerning Afghanistan, Iran, the Gulf countries, and the broader geopolitical landscape. The briefing, conducted at the Prime Minister House, was notably unattended by the opposition, a decision that Dr. Chaudhry expressed regret over. During the session, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch provided detailed insights to parliamentarians and political leaders, with contributions from PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, JUI Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, MQM leader Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and other coalition figures.
The minister reiterated that the briefing was organized not to serve any political agenda or individual interests but to address Pakistan's security concerns and formulate a rational policy to protect national interests in the current climate. He assured parliament that the political leaders' input would be integral to future policy development.
Dr. Chaudhry further condemned the attack on Iran and the killing of Iranian Supreme Commander Ali Khamenei. He stressed Pakistan's stance on de-escalation and urged all nations to work towards reducing tensions for regional peace. Discussing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, he affirmed its continuation until the Afghan Taliban regime takes definitive steps to prevent terrorist activities emanating from Afghan soil into Pakistan.
Earlier, the National Assembly resumed discussions on the regional situation, particularly the attacks on Iran. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig warned of the potential economic and financial repercussions if the conflict persists, urging Pakistan and allied nations to play a proactive role in halting the war. Usama Hamza expressed solidarity with Iran and condemned the deaths of innocent children in the bombings, calling for restraint from warring entities to preserve human lives. Ali Muhammad Khan described the attack on Iran as an assault on the Muslim Ummah and emphasized Pakistan's role in fostering peace.
Other speakers included Sheikh Aftab Ahmad, Shahida Rehmani, Dr. Farooq Sattar, Iqbal Afridi, Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, Shabbir Ali Qureshi, and Naeema Kishwar. The House is scheduled to reconvene tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.