KP rendered immense sacrifices for Pakistan in war against terrorism, says PM Shehbaz 

Peshawar (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during his visit to Peshawar on Tuesday, acknowledged the significant sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in the nation’s ongoing fight against terrorism.

Addressing a tribal jirga in Peshawar, the prime minister reaffirmed that the federal government would continue to support KP until terrorism is completely eradicated.

He highlighted that since 2010, the province has received Rs700 billion under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, specifically as part of its one percent share allocated to counter-terrorism initiatives. These funds, according to the prime minister, have been utilized to reinforce the police force, develop the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and improve the capabilities of law enforcement institutions across the province.

Describing the decision to allocate one percent of the NFC Award to KP as both fair and necessary, Shehbaz Sharif noted that this agreement, supported by all provinces, recognized KP’s frontline role in combating terrorism.

He praised the people of KP for their enduring support to Pakistan, recalling their backing during the national referendum and their continued loyalty to the armed forces in times of adversity.

The premier paid heartfelt tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the people of KP, many of whom lost their lives or sustained injuries defending the country. He said these sacrifices are etched into the nation’s history and will be remembered with great honour.

In remembrance of the Army Public School (APS) tragedy on December 16, 2014, he honoured the students and teachers who became victims of the heinous act, describing their loss as a deep national wound.

Turning to recent regional security developments, PM Shehbaz spoke of Pakistan’s firm and swift response to last month’s unprovoked aggression by India.

Speaking on recent security developments, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan had given a strong response to last month’s unprovoked Indian aggression under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

He reiterated that Pakistan’s decisive retaliation had frustrated India’s nefarious plans, adding that “India will never forget this decisive response of Pakistan.”

PM Shehbaz that leaders from countries he recently visited—Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan—congratulated Pakistan on what they termed a “historic victory” in response to India’s hostile actions.

The prime minister claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was left “frustrated and in a state of panic” following the developments.

Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, Shehbaz Sharif declared that India has no authority to revoke or withhold Pakistan’s rightful share of water.

He stressed the need for expanding the country’s water storage infrastructure and called for expedited work on major dam projects, including the Diamer Bhasha and Dasu dams.

In his concluding remarks, the prime minister urged national unity to counter external threats and expressed appreciation for the people of KP, who, according to him, offered special prayers for Pakistan’s strength during these tense times.

The jirga was attended by a host of notable figures including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal and provincial ministers, senators, parliamentarians, the Corps Commander Peshawar, Chief Secretary KP, and the Inspector General of Police.

The participants of the jirga offered Fateha for the martyrs of Pakistan, honouring both civilians and military personnel who sacrificed their lives for the country.