Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday said Pakistan had successfully thwarted attempts to malign it on the international stage and demonstrated responsible diplomacy that earned global recognition as a promoter of peace.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Success After Pulwama
Addressing a Pakistan Peoples Party workers’ convention in Buner district, the Governor said efforts were made to declare Pakistan a terrorist state in the wake of the Pulwama incident, but those attempts failed. He said Pakistan gave a strong response to aggression against it, after which world leaders contacted the country’s leadership to seek a ceasefire.
Appreciation from the International Community
Kundi said Pakistan played a constructive role in promoting peace during recent regional tensions, adding that the international community, including the United States, China, Russia and Gulf countries, had appreciated Pakistan’s balanced and responsible stance. He said Prime Minister, Field Marshal, Deputy Prime Minister and the Interior Minister played an important role in safeguarding national interests and effectively presenting Pakistan’s position before the world.
Tribute to Bhutto, Benazir, and Zardari
The Governor paid tribute to former Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and President Asif Ali Zardari for their contributions to strengthening the country’s defence capabilities. He said Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, Benazir Bhutto advanced the missile programme. At the same time, Asif Ali Zardari facilitated the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder technology, further enhancing the country’s defence.
Peace as a Prerequisite for Economic Growth
Kundi said lasting peace would pave the way for economic growth and investment, adding that Pakistan had the potential to become a major destination for investment. Highlighting the potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he said the province was rich in natural resources, hydropower, water, oil, gas, minerals, tourism and religious tourism, but sustainable peace was essential for development. He said he had consistently urged the provincial government to work jointly with the federation, in accordance with the Constitution, to ensure durable peace in the province so that it could emerge as a hub of investment and prosperity.
Governor’s Commitment to Party Workers
The Governor described party workers as the party’s greatest asset and said the doors of the Governor House would always remain open for them. He also congratulated the district leadership, organisers and workers on holding a successful convention and appreciated their commitment, discipline and dedication.
