The 34th National Security Committee meeting was held in Islamabad on Friday under the chair of Prime Minister Imran Khan. It discussed the alarming security situation in Afghanistan which could become a real threat for Pakistan, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
The security huddle emphasized chalking out a coordinated policy keeping in view the present circumstances. Prime Minister Khan stressed the need to establish synchronized contacts with Afghanistan. He also called upon the international community to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. In order to thwart any negative activities, PM Khan emphasized on better border control management.
He asked the establishment of a dedicated cell to synergize various streams of efforts on Afghanistan across the government including international coordination for humanitarian aid and effective border management to deter any negative spillover into Pakistan.
The NSC conclave which was convened to discuss the ongoing situation in Afghanistan was attended by relevant Federal Cabinet members, all Services Chiefs, and heads of intelligence services.
Premier Khan got a detailed briefing on the evolving regional security situation, especially the recent changes in Afghanistan and their likely impact on Pakistan.
The importance of international coordination on constructive political and economic engagement with the interim government in Afghanistan was also highlighted, a press release issued by the PM Media Office stated.
The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction on Pakistan’s support to the international evacuation effort from Afghanistan and noted that the entire world had appreciated Pakistan’s positive contribution.
The participants of the security summit were of the view that the evolving situation in the region was highly complex and that any instability in Afghanistan could entail serious implications for Pakistan.
The prime minister while agreeing with them, also underlined the need for a synchronized policy effort.
The federal ministers who attended the meeting included: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad, Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin and Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry.
Besides them, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Nadeem Raza and Intelligence Bureau DG Dr Suleman Khan, newly appointed Peshawar Corps Commander Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed and Security Advisor Moeed Yousuf also participated in the security conclave.
Reporter Awais Kiyani