PM regrets PTI’s propaganda campaign against armed forces

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Wednesday regretted the propaganda campaign unleashed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against the armed forces of Pakistan, which he said, will not be tolerated at all.

Chairing a meeting of the federal cabinet in Islamabad, he affirmed to resolutely defend the national interests.       

Shehbaz Sharif emphasised the need to unite against such malicious campaigns, stressing that our armed forces have made immense sacrifices in the fight against terrorism to ensure peace and stability in the country.  

Voicing serious concerns over the recent surge in terror acts especially in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Prime Minister said this is being done under an organised conspiracy.

Referring to the involvement of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in terror attacks, he stated the terror emanating from a neighboring country is not acceptable at all.

The premier added that Pakistan is ready to protect its citizens. He, however, said Pakistan wants to address this issue through negotiations and peaceful means. The contacts in this regard are being made directly and indirectly.  

Sharif further said the government is undertaking efforts to ensure ease of business in the country.

Citing a recent meeting amongst different ministries, he said they have agreed to a liberal visa regime to promote investment and tourism including religious tourism in the country. The visa regime will be presented in the cabinet for approval.

Sharing details of the new visa regime, the Prime Minister stated it envisages major changes, including providing free visas to businessmen and tourists from 126 countries. He was confident that this policy will open Pakistan's corridors for tourists and business community. Sharif added that the visa will also be provided in 24 hours through an electronic travel authorisation form.

The Prime Minister said e-gates will also be established at nine airports and Gwadar port. These e-gates will be established in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports in the first phase.