Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has drawn attention to what he describes as the “extremely dangerous” expansionist designs of the Indian government, which he believes pose a significant threat to regional and global peace and security. These remarks were made in light of recent events, specifically the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.
Canada has publicly stated that it is actively investigating credible allegations linking Indian government agents to the murder of Nijjar, a development that has raised diplomatic tensions. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his unequivocal stance, stating that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen constitutes “an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty.”
In response to these allegations, Canada took the unprecedented step of expelling India’s top intelligence agent, further exacerbating the diplomatic rift. India, in turn, expelled a Canadian diplomat and dismissed the accusations from Canada as “absurd and motivated.” India has also urged Canada to take legal action against anti-Indian elements operating within its borders.
Prime Minister Kakar, in addressing this issue, emphasized that Pakistan has been directly affected by India’s designs for an extended period. He pointed out that the recent surge in Hindutva ideology has not only alarmed Pakistan but has also garnered the attention of Western capitals. Pakistan remains committed to raising awareness about these concerns and has brought the matter to the attention of the United Nations Secretary-General.
Highlighting the evidence of Indian direct intervention in Pakistan, Kakar mentioned the capture of Indian spy Kulbhushan Yadav in Balochistan. Despite these challenges, he asserted that Pakistan possesses the capability to effectively combat terrorism, thanks to its strong military.
Kakar also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation, especially with Afghanistan, to address the growing threat of terrorism in the region. He acknowledged that the resurgence of terrorism is a concern shared by the entire region.
Regarding Pakistan’s foreign relations, Kakar reaffirmed the country’s deep-rooted and all-weather friendship with China, asserting that this friendship will remain steadfast. He dispelled any notion that Pakistan would develop relations with any country at the expense of its relationship with China.
Kakar also highlighted Pakistan’s friendly relations with the United States and other Western countries in various fields. He mentioned the influential Pakistani community in the United States, which plays a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties.
Regarding his recent meeting with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Chief, Kakar conveyed the IMF chief’s satisfaction with Pakistan’s actions against smugglers and currency hoarders. He underscored the importance of tax reforms, expanding the tax net, enhancing revenue generation, privatization, and power sector reforms in Pakistan’s economic revival plan. He expressed optimism that these measures would lead to a reduction in utility bills in the future.
Lastly, Kakar urged the international community to fulfill pledges made during the donor conference in Geneva to support reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in Pakistan’s flood-affected areas. He emphasized the importance of timely action to materialize these reconstruction projects.
Regarding the upcoming general elections in Pakistan, Kakar stated that the caretaker government’s primary responsibility is to facilitate the Election Commission of Pakistan in ensuring smooth, free, and fair elections.
