Call security meeting again for consensus, Bilawal asks PM

LAHORE: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to convene a high-level security conference again in the light of the resurgence of terrorism in the country.

Speaking at a gathering of PPP leaders at the Governor’s House Lahore on Monday, Bilawal stressed the need for an inclusive national security meeting, ensuring the participation of all political parties, including those who had previously opted out.

He stressed that combating terrorism requires unity among all political forces, calling for a collective effort to address the growing security threats. Expressing concern over the situation in Balochistan, Bilawal underscored the need for special attention to the province’s security challenges.

The PPP chairman also urged the opposition parties to rise above political differences and prioritise national interests over narrow political agendas. He reiterated his willingness to mediate between the government and opposition on matters of national security and called for a unified approach to counter terrorism and safeguard Pakistan’s stability.

Bilawal warned that Pakistan is facing renewed international conspiracies, and internal political polarisation is further exacerbating the country’s challenges. He stressed the importance of building consensus among all political stakeholders on security matters, urging the government to take proactive measures in engaging all parties.

Highlighting the PPP’s long history of sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Bilawal reaffirmed his party’s commitment to serving the people. He also acknowledged the role of Punjab Governor Sardar Salim Haider, saying that the PPP believed in public service.

The event was attended by prominent PPP figures, including former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, former chairman Evacuee Trust Property Board Asif Hashmi, Syed Hassan Murtaza, and others.

Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, while addressing the gathering, asserted that the PPP did not require external support to thrive in Punjab, as it was determined to reclaim its position in the province.

Expressing confidence in PPP’s leadership, he stated that, Insha-Allah, Bilawal-Bhutto Zardari would become the prime minister with the support of people. He said since President Asif Zardari entrusted him with the role, he had kept the doors of the Governor’s House open not only for PPP workers but also for the people of Punjab.

Reassuring party workers, the governor affirmed that they were not alone as long as he was holding the office. He further expressed his heartfelt desire to see the heir of the martyrs lead the country as its prime minister.