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Foreign
Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has emphasized Pakistan's commitment to maintaining
relations with all countries, including seeking enhanced engagement with the
Russian government through deep meaningful ties.
He expressed
these views during an interview with Al Jazeera TV, broadcast on Saturday.
Neutrality on
Ukraine Conflict:
Bhutto-Zardari
clarified that Pakistan aims to maintain neutrality regarding the Ukraine
conflict.
The country
does not align itself with any particular side in the ongoing conflict.
Expectations and
Engagement with the New Rulers of Afghanistan:
After the fall
of Kabul, the international community had high expectations from the new
rulers.
Pakistan's
position aligns with the global consensus, which emphasizes the importance of
women's rights, including access to education, and the prevention of Afghan
soil from being used for terrorist activities.
Bhutto-Zardari
stated that engagement of the global community with the new rulers of
Afghanistan is the most viable solution.
It is in
everyone's interest to have a secure and prosperous Afghanistan that is at
peace with itself and its neighbors.
The
international community expects the current rulers to fulfill their
commitments.
Security
Threats from TTP:
Pakistan faces
security threats from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist
organization.
After the
Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan, various terrorist incidents occurred in
Pakistan.
Islamabad
expects the Afghan Taliban to take action against these terrorists and recently
held a meeting with China and Afghanistan to address the threats of terrorism.
Upon Saudi
Arabia-Iran Diplomatic Restoration:
Pakistan is
working to strengthen ties with Iran through initiatives such as establishing a
border market in Balochistan and exploring electricity transmission projects.
Bhutto-Zardari
considers the restoration of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran as a
positive development for the region.
Pakistan-China
Relations and CPEC:
The foreign
minister defended China's investments in Pakistan and refuted allegations of
bias.
He highlighted
the successful completion of energy and road infrastructure projects under the
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and emphasized the positive impact of
the partnership.
Democracy and
Civilian Institutions:
Bhutto-Zardari
acknowledged Pakistan's need for democratic progress and emphasized the
importance of the army remaining apolitical and not intervening in politics.
He called for a
change in the current scenario, where the army holds influence, and stated that
strengthening democracy requires civilian institutions and parliament asserting
themselves.
This, in turn,
would gradually ease the military out of politics and lead to a stronger
Pakistani democracy.
(Courtesy:
Dawn)
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