——– Asserts ban imposed based on evidence
——– Says group not only burned Pakistani flag but also attacked our embassies abroad
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has accused the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) of engaging in anti-state activities over the past six months, claiming the group has been working against Pakistan’s interests.
“PTM not only burned the Pakistani flag but also attacked our embassies abroad,” Tarar stated during a press briefing on Tuesday. He alleged that the group was being funded from overseas to promote an anti-Pakistan narrative.
The minister also claimed that Afghan nationals were involved in some of the attacks attributed to PTM. “Based on clear evidence, a ban has been imposed on PTM, and investigations are underway to trace the sources of their funding,” he said.
Tarar reiterated that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, no political group would be allowed to undermine the country’s sovereignty or harm its ideological foundations. “Pashtuns are our brothers and have played a vital role in Pakistan’s development. Any organisation is only banned when sufficient evidence is presented,” he added.
The minister also spoke about Pakistan’s improving economic situation, noting a rise in the value of the rupee and a reduction in inflation. “Our economic indicators are improving, and international financial institutions are acknowledging our progress,” he said.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to economic stability, stating, “We will take every step necessary for Pakistan’s development and won’t allow anyone to destabilise the country.”
Tarar further mentioned that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed all provincial chief ministers to ensure that the benefits of reduced inflation reach the public.
He called on PTM members to rejoin the national mainstream and contribute to the nation’s progress, saying, “Our survival is tied to Pakistan. As long as Pakistan exists, we all have a future.”
Earlier, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar says the world is acknowledging Pakistan’s viable economic policies and country’s economic indicators are moving in the right direction.
Addressing a news conference in Lahore today (Saturday), he said according to Bloomberg, Pakistan’s economy is taking off and its stock market is performing exceptionally well.
The Minister said during the recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister to Pakistan, it was agreed that Pakistan would export halal meat worth two hundred million dollars and one hundred thousand tons of rice to Malaysia.
The Information Minister said that country’s exports had increased by 14 per cent while the FBR digitalization was done without spending a single penny. He said privatization of Pakistan International Airlines and other state owned enterprises is underway. Attaullah Tarar said that economic vision of the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is being implemented and now the world is terming Pakistan as emerging economy.
