Attempts to disrupt Pak-China ties will be foiled: Tarar
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Information Minister Attaullah Tarar addressed several key issues in a press conference on Monday. He asserted that enemies, both internal and external, were attempting to disrupt Pakistan's progress and Pakistan-China relations. Tarar emphasized the government's commitment to countering these efforts and ensuring the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan.
Tarar highlighted the recent agreement on the upgradation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting its potential to drive economic stability. He stressed the necessity of political stability for economic progress and criticized political figures, particularly PTI's founding chairman Imran Khan, for creating uncertainty and allegedly tarnishing Pakistan's reputation internationally.
He questioned the court's decisions, particularly regarding the 190 million pound corruption case, suggesting that giving a "clean chit" would undermine the justice system. Tarar also defended the Punjab Defamation Act, asserting that it aimed at holding all accountable, similar to international standards.
The minister dismissed rumors about restricting social media access in Pakistan, humorously referencing the Great Wall of China and its alleged "firewall." He praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China as historic and successful, anticipating progress on various bilateral projects, including the ML-1 railway project, Karachi Circular Railway, and IT training for Pakistani youth by a Chinese tech company.
He assured that the upgraded CPEC would benefit both nations and reiterated the priority of ensuring Chinese nationals' security. Tarar also pointed out positive economic indicators, such as declining inflation and current account deficit, and sufficient foreign exchange reserves for two months of imports.
On the international front, Tarar mentioned Pakistan's election to the non-permanent seat of the UN Security Council with a significant majority, interpreting it as a sign of trust from friendly countries.
