ISLAMABAD: As economic volatility raises specter of default, National Security Committee (NSC), country’s top forum on security and foreign policy agreed that national security hinges on economic sovereignty.

“Forum underscored that comprehensive ‘national security’ revolves around economic security and that sovereignty or dignity comes under stress without self-sufficiency and economic independence,” reads statement issued by Prime Minister’s Office following committee’s 40th meeting. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presided over meeting, where attendees included relevant federal cabinet members, chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, all services chiefs and heads of intelligence services. Meeting undertook comprehensive view of ongoing economic situation vis-à-vis challenges being faced by common man in Pakistan, particularly lower and middle-income classes.4

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar briefed participants on government’s roadmap for economic stability, including status of discussions with international financial institutions, exploring other financial avenues based on mutual interests, as well as relief measures for common man. NSC agreed on undertaking concrete steps to strengthen economy, including imports rationalisation as well as preventing illegal currency outflows and ‘Hawala’ business. Special emphasis will be made to improve agricultural output and manufacturing sector to ensure food security, imports substitution and employment, it said.

Meeting resolved that people-centric economic policies with trickledown effects to common man would remain a priority. While taking into account efforts to mitigate challenges of 33 million flood affectees, forum resolved to mobilise all resources for their rehabilitation and reconstruction in coordination with provincial governments and multilateral financial institutions. PM emphasised that war against terrorism would be led by federal and provincial governments as per National Action Plan in accordance with National Internal Security Policy with people-centric socio-economic development as priority while Armed Forces would provide resolute deterrence and secure conducive and enabling environment.  

“Forum concluded that no country will be allowed to provide sanctuaries and facilitation to terrorists and Pakistan reserves all rights in that respect to safeguard her people.” NSC reiterated its resolve to have zero-tolerance for terrorism in Pakistan and reaffirmed its determination to take on any and all entities that resort to violence. Sources privy to development said that huddle reviewed elements that caused country’s disrepute on social media. During meeting of National Security Committee, it has also been proposed to take action against those who spread negative campaigns against Pakistan on social media.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 03 2023

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