PR. No.136/2008

Date: 23/05/2008  

THE FOREIGN MINISTER'S COMMENTS ON NEGOTIATIONS FOR PEACE IN FATA

          In response to a question regarding political negotiations in FATA, the Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that the Government of Pakistan have a comprehensive strategy to address militancy and terrorism. Our strategy has three broad elements: political, socio-economic and military. We believe that military action alone will not be effective in permanently ending the phenomenon of terrorism.

The Foreign Minister said we are reaching out to the tribal leaders and notables as part of the political element of our overall strategy in fight against terrorism. Political engagement is possible only with those who renounce militancy and violence; don't allow the use of our territory against any other country; and do not help foreign terrorist elements to find hideouts in our territory.

The Foreign Minister underlined that as opposed to the past, the Government is negotiating from the position of strength. A strong implementation mechanism is part of these negotiations. He said peace in FATA will ensure access to the Government to engage in socio-economic development of the area.

The Foreign Minister said history suggests that the use of force alone can lead to self perpetuating violence. However, the determination to use force, wherever required, remains an important element of our strategy. We firmly believe that our focused and determined efforts, which have a combination of political, socio-economic and military elements, will lead to permanent end to militancy.

Islamabad

23 May 2008