ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has paid glowing tribute to all victims of terrorism, including civilians, as well as the brave members of the security forces and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) who lost their lives while protecting the country from terrorists.
The President in his message for the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism, observed on August 21, 2024, said that the day brings to light the suffering and pain of families who have lost their loved ones to terrorism.
This year’s theme, “Victims of Terrorism as Peace Advocates and Educators,” underscores the vital role that survivors play in promoting peace and raising awareness about the devastating effects of violent extremism.
President Zardari reiterated the commitment to take decisive action against terrorists. He said that the fundamental objective was to eliminate terrorism with the support of the people and secure a peaceful future for the country. He assured that the resolve remains unshaken and underscored the commitment to supporting the victims and their families. He said Pakistan has paid a heavy price in the war on terror for over two decades.
He said the country has lost thousands of civilians and security personnel noting Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed was also martyred by the terrorists. The President in the message said a number of other political and religious leaders of the country have lost their lives at the hands of terrorists. He stated that terrorism has also caused financial losses worth billions of dollars to the economy of the country.
“Anti-Pakistan forces have been supporting and surreptitiously financing terrorism, and sending militants to carry out terrorist activities in Pakistan,” he said. The President added Pakistani nation, has displayed unparalleled determination and resilience in the face of these challenges. He said Pakistan is the only country in the world that has successfully contained terrorist forces and has singularly been fighting this war for over two decades.
President Zardari highlighted that international recognition has been received for ongoing efforts, with a steadfast commitment to contributing to international counter-terrorism initiatives. He stressed that brave security forces and law enforcement agencies continue to carry out targeted actions against terrorist elements, sacrificing their lives for the nation’s peace and security. “While military operations have successfully dismantled numerous terrorist networks, non-kinetic measures, such as the National Action Plan, Pakistan’s National Narrative Against Terrorism and Extremism, and various socio-economic development projects, have strengthened community resilience against terrorism,” he said.
He strongly believed that terrorism is a global challenge, requiring collective efforts and cooperation by the international community for its elimination. “We must strengthen international cooperation, enhance intelligence sharing, and address the root causes that fuel extremism and terrorism. I am sure that by working together, we would create a safer and more peaceful world for all,” he concluded.
