Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, stated that Pakistan had conveyed a clear message to Afghanistan four months ago, asking it to choose between terrorists and Pakistan. He said that if Afghanistan failed to understand the message, Pakistan would respond accordingly, and such a response has already been given.
Addressing the Senate session, Rana Sanaullah remarked that the anti-terrorism policy currently being implemented should have been adopted earlier, as doing so could have eliminated terrorism from the country. He emphasized that whenever attacks are carried out against Pakistan from Afghan soil, a firm response will be delivered. He also urged the PTI founder and his party to stand with the state and fully support operations against terrorism.
Regarding the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, Rana Sanaullah stated that the government has neither offered any relaxation nor struck any deal. He maintained that Imran Khan has received the best possible medical treatment and that the Supreme Court of Pakistan has also overseen the process. He said that doctors conducted the medical examination and that Barrister Gohar was invited to attend but declined. He added that since a medical examination confirmed the treatment was appropriate, the issue should not be politicized.
He further stated that the coalition government had also attempted dialogue when the opposition was in power. According to him, the government remains ready to engage in talks for the country’s betterment and wants the opposition to actively participate in Parliament and its committees, as well as strengthen the Charter of Democracy. He stressed that democracy progresses through negotiations, not deadlock.
On social media regulation, Rana Sanaullah said that if a 40-billion-rupee firewall has failed, it will be rebuilt, and even a third attempt will be made if necessary. He emphasized that protection against social media attacks is essential and that no compromise will be made on this matter, regardless of whether the cost is 40 billion or 400 billion rupees.
Responding to criticism over the Punjab government’s purchase of an aircraft, he said the plane is not a personal asset of any party or the Chief Minister but belongs to the province. He added that the previous aircraft was replaced after 25 to 30 years and that the new plane is technologically advanced and intended for long-term use.
