ISLAMABAD: The Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), during his inaugural address at the International Conference on “Pakistan Fighting War for the World Against Terrorism,” underscored Pakistan’s unique position in the global fight against terrorism. Speaking from Islamabad, he highlighted the nation’s enduring commitment to combating extremism, emphasizing the sacrifices made by its citizens and military personnel.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari invoked the legacy of his grandfather, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, illustrating Pakistan’s historical stance against external pressures and its resolve in the face of adversity. He detailed the heavy toll terrorism has taken on the country, with 92,000 lives lost and economic damages exceeding $150 billion over the past two and a half decades.
The Chairman stressed that Pakistan’s battle against terrorism is not just a national concern but a global imperative, as terrorism knows no borders. He cited the extensive efforts and successes of Pakistan’s armed forces in dismantling terrorist networks like al-Qaeda and Daesh, and urged for international recognition and support of these efforts.
Bilawal called for more equitable burden-sharing in the fight against terror, advocating for structured investment in counterterrorism measures and development projects. He highlighted the importance of initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in fostering socio-economic growth as a deterrent to extremism.
He also addressed the digital sphere, proposing a Digital Bill of Rights to protect youth online and combat extremist content. The Chairman called for global cooperation in financial oversight, urging that banks involved in terror-linked transactions face the same scrutiny as those laundering drug money.
In addressing regional dynamics, Bilawal extended an invitation for partnership to India, highlighting the need for collaboration in countering terrorism and resolving longstanding issues like Kashmir. He emphasized the potential of a historic partnership between the two nations, rooted in shared civilizational values.
Concluding his address, Chairman Bilawal reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to fight terrorism, calling for international solidarity and support. He expressed confidence that Pakistan’s resilience will ultimately prevail over extremism, drawing upon the nation’s rich history of overcoming challenges.
The conference underscored Pakistan’s critical role in global counterterrorism efforts and the need for continued international cooperation and recognition of its sacrifices and achievements.