PM Shehbaz Sharif Condemns TTP Attacks from Afghan Soil, Calls for National Unity and Visa Fee Waivers

ISLAMABAD, Jul 24 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the recent terror attacks by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) using Afghan soil, calling the situation “unacceptable.” At a federal cabinet meeting, he emphasized that while Pakistan is ready to protect its citizens, it seeks a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Prime Minister Sharif noted a disturbing rise in terrorist incidents, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, resulting in the deaths of army, police, and civil armed forces personnel. He described this surge in violence as a deliberate attempt to undermine Pakistan’s stability at a time when the government is focused on development efforts, including reaching a Staff Level Agreement with the IMF and launching a relief package for power consumers.

Sharif criticized Afghanistan’s role in the terrorism wave, highlighting ongoing interactions between the two governments and a recent visit by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif. He expressed frustration over Pakistan’s hospitality towards Afghan refugees, only to be met with attacks from TTP, and called for an end to these hostile actions.

The Prime Minister also addressed the perpetrators of the May 9 riots, which targeted parliament, PTV, and the PM House. He condemned the malicious campaign against Army Chief General Asim Munir and stressed the need for national unity to safeguard the country and its armed forces.

In a bid to boost business and tourism, Sharif announced a decision to eliminate visa fees for 126 countries, aiming to attract investors, tourists, and travelers. The visa process will be streamlined with electronic travel authorizations and the establishment of E-gates at key airports and Gwadar Port.

Additionally, Sharif condemned the severe human rights abuses committed by Israel against Palestinians, noting the deaths of around 40,000 Palestinians, including children and women. He criticized Israel’s disregard for international resolutions and called for action to protect Pakistani missions abroad following recent attacks in Germany and London.