South Asian countries duty bound to work for peace & stability: PAT Chairman

PAT Chairman Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri has said that elimination of terrorism and extremism should be the topmost priority of the countries of the region. He said that those endangering the future of 1.5 billion people due to the vested political or electoral interests should come out of their jingoism. He said that the world should heed the points that Pakistan Foreign Minister raised in his address to the General Assembly. He said that even the longest running wars are finally decided on the table, adding that the newly formed government of Pakistan wants to engage with India and other regional countries for establishment of durable peace and stability in South Asia, a spirit that should be welcomed. He said that jingoism is not a solution to any problem.

Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri made these remarks while talking to the senior party leaders at his residence yesterday. He said that it is by adopting austerity and curbing corruption that the national economy will be put on track. He said that ridding Pakistan of its dependence on the international financial institutions will be the biggest service to the country, for a major chunk of the national exchequer is spent on servicing of the debt and payment of mark-up. He said that the social sector such as education and health is suffering due to paucity of funds.

Dr Qadri said that the past rulers looted the national wealth with two hands and destroyed economy due to lack of effective policies. He said that they were not elected representatives but the Mughal kings. He said that it is demand of the honesty that every penny of the national exchequer should be protected and spent most judiciously. He said that the present government must focus on structural reforms and on improving governance. He said that if the institutions are fixed, the fruits of democracy and economic development will reach the common man.

In a meeting with the central leaders of MSM and MYL, Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri said that the youths must respect the laws particularly traffic laws. He said that violation of traffic law can result in death and injuries on the road. He asked the youth to take active part in raising awareness about traffic laws, and tree plantation campaign.