Pakistan will defend itself against threats by hostile elements: NSC

ISLAMABAD: National Security Committee at its meeting in Islamabad today emphatically stated that Pakistan will defend itself resolutely against the threats posed by the institutional collaboration of hostile elements.

The meeting chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif also renewed its commitment towards regional and international peace.

It also strongly condemned the recent incident of terror in Kabul and resolved to remain steadfast and resolute in support of Afghan people.

The participants voiced concerns on deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and strongly rejected the baseless allegations on Pakistan in that context. It was highlighted that Pakistan was the only country in the Afghan equation which has achieved clear and measurable success against terrorism despite limited capacity and huge human and economic costs.

It said Pakistan has not only remained committed to a peaceful and stable Afghanistan but also worked with all regional and global initiatives to that end.

The forum noted that Pakistan has also shown exceptional restraint even when Afghan territory was used for terrorist acts in Pakistan which resulted in massive human losses.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Defense Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Ch Nisar Ali Khan, Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Air Chief Sohail Aman, Naval Chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah and DG ISI Lieutenant General Naveed Mukhtar.