TLDR:
Pakistan’s nuclear programme under scrutiny
Bilawal warns of international conspiracies
PPP rejects political compromises
LARKANA (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s nuclear programme and missile technology have become a focal point of international criticism, with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari cautioning against external conspiracies targeting the nation’s strength under the guise of political interference.
Pakistan’s nuclear capability as a target
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), raised concerns over international attempts to undermine Pakistan’s nuclear programme and missile technology. Speaking at the 17th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, he stressed that global powers are eyeing Pakistan’s capabilities, seeking to strip the country of its strategic assets. The PPP leader asserted that external criticism of Pakistan’s internal political landscape is merely a pretext to weaken its military and strategic autonomy.
Benazir bhutto as the voice of the people
During the event, Bilawal reflected on the legacy of Benazir Bhutto, highlighting her unwavering dedication to representing marginalised communities. He described her as the true voice of Pakistan, advocating for farmers, labourers, and the underprivileged at international platforms. Bilawal reiterated that her assassination in 2007 was a calculated effort to silence all genuine voices in the country and create a void filled by political puppets willing to compromise national interests.
Divided political landscape
Bilawal criticised Pakistan’s fractured political framework, accusing certain leaders of prioritising personal power over national interests. He claimed that these political figures are willing to make deals that jeopardise the country’s sovereignty for a seat in Islamabad. Stressing the importance of unity, Bilawal called for collective political action to tackle Pakistan’s pressing challenges, including terrorism, economic instability, and regional conflicts.
No compromise on nuclear assets
The PPP chairman rejected any possibility of compromising Pakistan’s nuclear assets and missile programme. He argued that recent international comments on Pakistan’s internal politics are not driven by concerns for democracy but by an agenda to weaken the country’s strategic defences. Bilawal maintained that the PPP and its supporters will oppose any attempt to dilute Pakistan’s military and technological independence.
Internal governance and federal unity
Bilawal also took aim at the current government’s policies, accusing it of neglecting underdeveloped regions and breaching agreements meant to ensure equitable resource distribution. He criticised the ruling party for sidelining marginalised provinces in development projects and called for adherence to parliamentary consensus in policymaking. According to Bilawal, a unified approach is essential to addressing Pakistan’s economic and social issues.
Confronting international pressure
Bilawal linked international interest in Pakistan’s nuclear programme to wider global conspiracies. He urged all political factions to set aside differences and focus on safeguarding national interests. The PPP leader warned of attempts by foreign powers to install a government in Pakistan willing to make compromises detrimental to the country’s sovereignty.