LAHORE: Pakistan’s Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to raising the issue of Palestine on the global stage, condemning Israel’s alarming aggression and its dire humanitarian consequences.
During a media interaction at Mayo Hospital, the premier emphasized Pakistan’s active role in addressing the situation. He mentioned that Pakistan had co-hosted an emergency session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) alongside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to address the Palestine issue.
Prime Minister Kakar further revealed that in his interactions with global leaders, the Chinese leadership, and international media, he had expressed Pakistan’s stance unequivocally. Pakistan remains dedicated to pursuing the resolution of the Palestine issue and will continue to play an active role in this regard.
Given the current crisis, Pakistan is demanding an immediate ceasefire and the opening of a humanitarian corridor. The prime minister underscored that while the Palestine issue is historical and chronic, there is no justification for the inappropriate aggression displayed by Israel.
Regarding the upcoming general elections, the prime minister stressed that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is a constitutional body responsible for setting a specific election date. He highlighted that the delimitation process is a constitutional requirement, and the previous parliament had legislated on this matter in accordance with constitutional mandates.
The interim government is prepared to assist the ECP in this process, but it is within the ECP’s domain to determine the election date, and the caretaker government cannot dictate that decision.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Participation in Elections
Regarding the participation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the upcoming elections, the prime minister clarified that the ECP has not imposed any restrictions on PTI, and there is no intention to dismantle it as a political party. The allocation of election symbols is also the responsibility of the ECP.
The caretaker government is committed to upholding legal and constitutional principles and will not engage in any illegal or unconstitutional actions.
Prime Minister Kakar emphasized that all registered political parties, both large and small, have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the forthcoming polls, with no hindrance to political activities in the country.
Pakistan Policy on Refugees
In response to questions about the repatriation of illegal migrants, the prime minister explained that they have categorized illegal aliens into three groups. The government is fulfilling its international obligations for the approximately 1.7 million registered refugees. Foreigners who have been living in Pakistan without documentation for years can return with valid and legal travel documents and visas.
The third category involves identity theft, and mechanisms are in place to remove them from the database.
The government’s focus is on regulated movement, and those with self-claims over businesses and properties can approach relevant legal forums and institutions for dispute resolution.
The prime minister mentioned that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is a statutory body that has received support from the previous parliament through legislation. Its decisions are not subject to challenge.
Negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are progressing smoothly, and discussions for the second tranche are expected during the IMF team’s visit to Pakistan in November.
The prime minister credited the government’s measures to crack down on smuggling and illicit currency trade for positive impacts on inflation, leading to a reduction in US dollar and petroleum product rates. These efforts have contributed to reducing the country’s circular debt.
Furthermore, the crackdown on illegal smuggling has encouraged the local industry to return to productivity, leading to positive economic indicators.
The prime minister highlighted the significance of projecting Pakistan’s history and culture to the world to boost the tourism sector. He commended provincial governments for initiatives to attract religious tourism and encouraged other provinces with historical sites to focus on this area.
