Latest news with #SyedYousufRazaGilani
Business Recorder
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Senate chairman explains Pakistan's approach to India's belligerence
LAHORE: Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that during the recent Indian provocations, the entire Pakistani nation, along with all political parties, demonstrated exemplary unity, which played a pivotal role in delivering a strong and effective national response to the enemy. Talking to the media after visiting the International Solar Energy Exhibition at the Expo Centre, here on Sunday, he said that the bravery and professionalism of Pakistan's armed forces are acknowledged globally. He stressed that despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan responded to Indian provocations with restraint and strategic maturity. 'Pakistan's measured and well-thought-out response has earned global recognition for its wisdom and composure,' he said. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani extended heartfelt congratulations to the entire nation for demonstrating unity and playing a vital role in shaping a cohesive national response. 'The credit for our firm and peaceful strategy goes to the leadership, armed forces, and the unity of all political stakeholders,' he added. He said Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to peace and dialogue, consistently prioritizing negotiations over confrontation in resolving regional issues. 'We have never taken any action that would threaten the stability of the region,' he said. To a question on Balochistan, he recalled that during his tenure as Prime Minister, he had clearly highlighted India's involvement in sponsoring terrorism and unrest in the province. 'At that time, I presented evidence to international forums and even Bollywood produced a film, The Accidental Prime Minister, which indirectly hinted at Indian policy contradictions. This led India to show willingness to engage in dialogue on core issues like Siachen, Kashmir, and interference in Balochistan,' he said. To another query, he said Pakistan had called for a neutral and independent investigation into the Pahalgam attack, but India refused. He noted that India unilaterally suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and blocked river flows, actions that violate international law. 'However, Pakistan's leadership and armed forces responded firmly, demonstrating our full capability to defend our sovereignty. The armed forces acted decisively and solely in self-defense,' he added. On domestic politics, the senate chairman stressed the need for national unity. He declined to comment on PTI's narrative, stating that their cases are sub judice and will be decided by courts. 'We must now focus on uniting the nation. Political divisions must not derail our shared goals,' he said. Responding to a question on the upcoming federal budget, he called for maximum relief for the common man. 'I am a public representative, and so are my children. I urge the government to provide substantial relief to the people in the next budget,' he said. On energy policy, he underscored the importance of affordable energy solutions. 'If subsidies are to be reduced in the next budget, there must be alternatives such as affordable solar panels to reduce the burden of electricity bills on the public,' he suggested. He also advocated cutting unnecessary expenditures in other sectors to divert resources toward public relief. When asked about PPP's role in current political developments, he responded that the party always put national interest first. 'At this stage, it's not about any party or individual, it's about Pakistan. Any consultations, whether through Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz or coordination committees, are aimed at the country's betterment,' he said. Earlier, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani toured various stalls and appreciated the quality of Pakistani solar energy products and technologies on display. Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mian Abuzar Shad also accompanied him during the visit. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
23-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Gilani reaffirms stance against terrorism
ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan's firm stance against terrorism and its commitment to promoting peace and cooperation in the region and beyond. He said that Pakistan is an important country in the region and has always advocated peaceful resolution of conflicts. He lauded the Pakistan Armed Forces for their effective response during recent tensions with India, stating that while India imposed war under the guise of false propaganda, Pakistan's armed forces and the nation stood united in resisting aggression. 'Pakistan strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms, both regionally and globally,' he said. 'The only path to lasting peace is through dialogue. War brings destruction, while negotiations open doors to resolution.' The chairman Senate expressed these views during a meeting with ambassadors of African countries, representatives of the United Nations, and conveners of Parliamentary Friendship Groups established in Pakistan, on the occasion of 'Pak-Africa Friendship Day' at the Parliament House. He said that Pakistan is keen to further expand its brotherly, long-standing, deep, and multifaceted relations with African countries, and to promote trade and investment with them. This forum not only helps strengthen the historical and fraternal ties between Pakistan and African nations but also provides an effective platform for mutual cooperation and meaningful dialogue, he said. He said that the historical relations and sustainable friendship between Pakistan and African countries are based on deep trust, which continues to strengthen mutual cooperation, harmony, and brotherhood. The chairman Senate termed this splendid heritage as a reflection of shared values like justice, sovereignty, and mutual respect. Speaking on the economic and trade cooperation between Pakistan and African nations, Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that over the past decade, mutual trade, investment, and cooperation have significantly increased, reflecting a positive and encouraging trend. On this occasion, he also referred to his recent appointment as the founding Chairman of the 'Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference' and expressed his desire to further enhance ties with African parliamentary leadership. Discussing the future vision, the chairman Senate said that Pakistan seeks a dynamic, effective, and equal partnership with Africa, based on mutual benefit, respect, and shared aspirations. The conveners of various friendship groups formed in the Senate of Pakistan related to African countries, including Senator Maulana Attaur Rehman, Senator Ali Zafar, Senator Asad Qasim, Senator Jan Buleidi, Senator Abdul Qadir, Senator Bilal Ahmed, and Senator Sardar Gurdeep Singh were also present on the occasion. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
