No compromise on country’s sovereignty: Gilani

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in unequivocal terms has declared that there would be no compromise on the sovereignty of the country. Talking to journalists at the State Guest House here on Sunday, the Prime Minster dilated about the policy of his government on dialogue. Gilani said the government had not budged away from the policy of holding talks as it strongly felt that political dialogue on issues was necessary. Regarding the recently launched operation in tribal areas, the Prime Minister said that they were not in favour of it, but as the agreement was flouted there, the provincial government had no other option, but to opt for the operation. He denied the impression that there was any pressure on the government regarding operation in tribal areas.

The Prime Minister said foreign elements with the aid of locals were involved in terrorist activities in the tribal region, which he added was totally unacceptable. Referring to the government’s policy on operation against the terrorists, the Prime Minister said that Army Chief General Kayani had aptly briefed him, the President and allied parties on the situation.

The Prime Minister made it clear that the government was fully determined to provide basic amenities, education, health facilities in the tribal areas. He, however, firmly declared that no parallel government would be accepted there.

The Prime Minister stated that their government had complete support of the entire nation on tackling the issue of terrorism. Responding to a query on restoration of judges, the Prime Minister averred that they had endeavoured for their release and would have them restored too.

The Prime Minister told that on completion of their 100-day in government, they would take the nation into confidence. He said prices of oil and other essential commodities were on rise universally, and those who possessed oil reserves were surviving in the crisis. The Prime Minister visited Mausoleum of Hazrat Mian Mir Saheb (AR) during the day and will also attend Valima reception of son of Defence Minister Ahmad Mukhtar in a local hotel later on the day.