The government on Saturday approved a comprehensive counter-terror campaign named ‘Operation Azm-i-Istehkam’ to eradicate terrorism from the country.
The decision was made in the National Action Plan’s Apex Committee session headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Azm-i-Istehkam will integrate and synergize multiple lines of effort to combat the menace of extremism and terrorism in a comprehensive and decisive manner,” the PM’s Office (PMO) said in a press release.
Addressing the Central Apex Committee, the Prime Minister reassured the nation that the menace of terrorism would be rooted out soon.
He said the wave of terrorism had engulfed the country for nearly 25 years and had brought massive societal and economic costs.
Calling all stakeholders to collaborate, he said, “The war against terrorism is a joint effort of all state institutions as it is a battle for the survival of the country.”
He added, “The war against extremism is for the very existence of the state; therefore, we cannot afford to lose it.”
Moreover, the premier emphasized that not only the armed forces but also all institutions, ministries, and provinces have the responsibility to eradicate terrorism. The premier added that the role of federating units in this battle is as crucial as that of the armed forces; therefore, the former should also take the initiative to combat terrorism.
The PM said the rule of law was vital for the much-needed stability to bring about economic reforms to pull the country out of crisis.
“An unstable environment in any state will not win the trust of local investors, let alone foreign investors,” the premier cautioned.
All chief ministers, governors, chief secretaries, interior minister, defence minister, military officials and others joined the meeting.
Meanwhile, a meeting of the apex committee of Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was postponed.