Pakistani government calls on militants to disarm before talks
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 22 August 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Pakistani government calls on militants to disarm before talks, 22 August 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/521f46bf12.html [accessed 22 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 22, 2013
Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif
The Pakistani government says Islamist militants must disarm before there can be any dialogue with Islamabad.
A high-profile meeting of civilian and military leaders on August 22 made the statement after Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared terrorism an "existential threat" to Pakistan on August 19.
The meeting also decided to recreate a "National Security Council" to deal with the security challenges Pakistan is facing.
Earlier in the day, a senior Pakistani Taliban commander welcomed Sharif's August 19 offer to hold peace talks.
In a statement, Asmatullah Muawiya praised the prime minister for "demonstrating political maturity" by reiterating his offer to hold peace negotiations.
It was not clear whether any other top Pakistani Taliban leaders share Muawiya's views.
Muawiya is the leader of a Pakistani Taliban faction from eastern province of Punjab.
Based on reporting by geo.tv, ap, and radio.gov.pk
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
