ISLAMABAD: Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Tuesday said the whole world was mocking Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies.
“The way the entire Pakistan reacted during the crisis with India gave the impression to the world that we are a mature nation. Pakistan’s standing has improved greatly at the international level due to its mature response,” the information minister said while addressing the media.
Stating that the “steps taken by Pakistan saved the world from a big disaster”, Chaudhry said, “The Indian media was badly mocked world over for creating war hysteria.”
“The whole world is mocking Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies,” he added.
Chaudhry said the situation is changing and “we are drifting further away from war with time”. “Even in India, the sane elements are challenging Modi’s policy and questioning how he can risk the lives of millions for the sake of his election campaign. In India, voices are also being raised condemning Modi’s policy and war hysteria and we would like to thank this logical segment over there.”
Thanking friendly countries for their help in de-escalating tensions, the information minister said, “The role played by China, Arab countries, Iran, Turkey and the United States deserves appreciation.”
Further, the information minister said, “In January, the National Security Council (NSC) had issued a statement that we will take action against extremism and had even done so last year. Now a political and administrative plan has been prepared and phase-wise action has been started.”
“Pakistan recently announced a policy under which 70 countries were granted visa-free entry. We consider tourism the foundation of our economy and thus want to show foreigners that we are a society which understands the point of view of others,” he added. “Thus, we are very happy that the world has responded positively to us.”
Expressing the hope that Pakistan will meet the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the information minister said, “Pakistan faces no economic sanctions and big countries are supporting our economy,” he asserted. “Arab countries are investing in our country and we want to continue with this environment, improve our trade and make the country’s economy stand on its own feet.”
Responding to a question regarding Punjab Information and Culture Minister Fayyazul Hassan Chohan’s anti-Hindu remarks, the information minister said, “He has apologised for his comments.” “It is necessary to respect all minorities,” he asserted.
Published in Daily Times, March 6th 2019.
