No country can impose undue demands on Pakistan: Shahbaz

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said on Thursday no country had an authority to accuse or make undue demands from the Pakistani nation under the garb of support. “Pakistan is a fully sovereign and independent country, and its prestige and national honour are most dear to us,” he said.

Shahbaz expressed these views during a meeting with Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, as they discussed different matters of mutual interest, including the prevailing situation in the country, political affairs and international issues.

The chief minister said vibrant nations face challenges with bravery and the existing challenges had created many new opportunities. “They have provided the nation with an opportunity to make the country a great state,” he added.

He said, “The Pakistani people have the potential to change their destiny on their own. Hard work, zeal and courage are prerequisites to take the country to the heights of development.” He said Pakistan’s immortal sacrifices in the war against terrorism have no similitude in the comity of nations. Pakistan had achieved wonderful successes in war against terrorism and the sacrifices made the country more prosperous and secure, Shahbaz added.

“Pakistan’s invaluable sacrifices will be written in golden words in the annals of history,” said the chief minister. “Pakistan’s sacrifices and steps against terrorism should be fully acknowledged at the global level. We have to foil the nefarious designs of the enemy by maintaining unity in our ranks as its time to maintain unity and national cohesion rather than to divide the nation.” All the people were required to move forward in unison for the sake of the country,” said Shahbaz.

On the other hand, the chief minister, who presided over a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order, approved the plan to hold cricket matches between the World XI and Pakistan in Lahore, promising 100 per cent security for the World XI tour.

He also ordered foolproof security arrangements on Eid-ul-Azha, with special attention to be paid to bazaars and parks. The chief minister said the defunct organisations won’t be allowed to collect hides and ordered the officials to implement the ban strictly. Meanwhile, Shahbaz expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of precious lives in Karachi due to heavy rain and the unprecedented floods.