On the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism, we pay homage to all victims of terrorism, including our civilians, brave personnel of security forces, and law enforcement agencies (LEAs), who lost their lives while defending the country from the terrorists. This day also reminds us of the pain and sufferings of families who lost their loved ones at the hands of the terrorists.
This year's theme, "Victims of Terrorism as Peace Advocates and Educators," underscores the vital role that survivors play in promoting peace and raising awareness about the devastating effects of violent extremism.
Pakistan has paid a heavy in the incessant war on terror for over two decades. We have lost thousands of civilians and security personnel. Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed was also martyred by the terrorists. A number of other political and religious leaders of the country have lost their lives at the hands of terrorists. Terrorism has also caused financial losses worth billions of dollars to the country’s economy. Anti-Pakistan forces have been supporting and surreptitiously financing terrorism, and sending militants to carry out terrorist activities in Pakistan.
Our nation has displayed unparalleled resilience and determination in the face of these challenges. Pakistan is the only country in the world that has successfully contained terrorist forces and has singularly been fighting this war for over two decades. Our efforts have been recognized globally, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to contributing to international counter-terrorism efforts. Even today, our brave security forces and law enforcement agencies continue to undertake targeted actions against terrorist elements and sacrifice their lives for the peace and security of the nation. While kinetic initiatives, like military operations, successfully dismantled numerous terrorist networks, non-kinetic measures like the implementation of policy initiatives like the National Action Plan, Pakistan’s National Narrative Against Terrorism and Extremism and other socio-economic development projects have built community resilience against the menace.
On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to continue taking decisive action against terrorist elements. It is our fundamental goal to eradicate terrorism with the support of our people and secure a peaceful future for our country. Our resolve remains unshaken and we stand committed to supporting the victims and their families.
Terrorism is a global challenge, requiring collective efforts and cooperation by the international community for its elimination. We must strengthen international cooperation, enhance intelligence sharing, and address the root causes that fuel extremism and terrorism. I am sure that by working together, we would create a safer and more peaceful world for all.
Embargoed: Not to be published/broadcast/telecast before 21 August 2024
