Tarar assails IK’s son-linked ‘anti-Pakistan’ Geneva meeting

ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Thursday said Pakistan has emerged as a key diplomatic player in the Middle East situation, with its mediation efforts being acknowledged globally. Addressing a press conference at PTV Headquarters, Tarar said Pakistan is increasingly being seen as a “responsible and relevant state” on the international stage, adding that the country’s diplomatic outreach, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, has strengthened its global standing. He said Pakistan’s role as a mediator has unsettled India, claiming that Indian media itself was criticising its government over Islamabad’s growing influence. Referring to recent developments, Tarar said the Geneva forum also witnessed “unusual” activity, linking a speech by PTI founder’s son, Kasim Khan, to what he termed an anti-state narrative. The minister alleged that elements associated with PTI, including Zulfi Bukhari, were in contact with individuals such as Arif Ajakia and Naseem Baloch, accusing them of attempting to undermine Pakistan’s economic interests, particularly its GSP Plus trade status. He claimed these efforts were aimed at damaging exports and weakening the economy. Tarar further said the government had invited the PTI founder’s sons to visit Pakistan on NICOP, but they chose not to, questioning their commitment to national identity. On the domestic front, he strongly criticised PTI, accusing it of writing to the IMF to block Pakistan’s bailout and “praying for default.” He said such a scenario would have harmed all sectors of the economy, but added that the government’s policies helped steer the country away from crisis and put it back on a path of recovery. He said Pakistan’s improving economic indicators and export growth were being acknowledged internationally, citing the World Bank’s recognition of reforms, particularly in the FBR. Emphasising national unity, Tarar said no political leader or party is above the state, adding that criticism is a democratic right but should not come at the cost of national interest or dignity. He also accused PTI of failing to deliver on key promises during its tenure, including housing and job creation, and termed it a “personality-driven party” struggling with internal divisions. Referring to foreign policy, the minister said Pakistan continues to raise its voice on issues like Palestine and Iran while maintaining diplomatic balance and engagement with global stakeholders. He reiterated that despite what he described as “conspiracies and propaganda,” Pakistan would continue to move forward, strengthen its economy, and enhance its role globally. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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