- Says Pakistan charting path to avoid getting caught up in West and Russia-China competition
- Compares arrests of PTI leaders, workers to arrests of those who attacked US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021
ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has said that Pakistan was focusing on its own interests without choosing sides in the great power competition, and that the West was “over-obsessed” with efforts to contain China.
The prime minister, in an interview with Washington Post during his visit to New York to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly session published on Wednesday, said Pakistan intended to stay “neutral” on Russia’s war with Ukraine and saw China as its “all-weather friend” and “strategic partner.”
“It’s not a Cold War. There is no Iron Curtain here. It’s not that opaque. Everybody sees what is happening,” the prime minister said. He said that the West was “over-obsessed” with efforts to contain China.
He told the interviewer that Pakistan was charting a path, designed to avoid getting caught up in the competition between the West and Russia and China. He said Pakistan had no intention of committing to either camp in the growing US-China rivalry.
By siding with the West against the Soviets and again after 9/11, Pakistan paid a high price, Kakar said. “Pakistan in the last 30 years, has been treated unfairly by the West,” he told the interviewer.
“Every nation for itself… Why should we be worried about this competition? It’s between two great powers, two great civilizations, and the implications [affect] 150-plus countries. And Pakistan is just one of them,” PM Kakar remarked.
Mentioning Pakistan’s “neutral” stance on Ukraine, the prime minister said: “This crisis is creating challenges and at the same time it is creating opportunities also within the region, and we are looking at it both ways.”
Prime Minister Kakar flatly denied the allegations in a media report of Pakistan moving any munitions to Ukraine saying, “We have not gone for any sale which was directly intended for the Ukraine, not any sort of transactions, even through a third party.”
Regarding the arrest of workers of Pakistan Tehree-k-e-Insaf, the prime minister denied the alleged abuses and compared Pakistan’s actions to the arrests in the United States of those who attacked the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
“Arrests are being made for unlawful actions, somebody who’s involved in arson or vandalism,” he said. “This is not the kind of behavior which is promoted or vindicated by any liberal democracy. So why is it being even expected of Pakistan that we should condone such behaviors?”
PM Kakar pays respects at Roza-e-Rasool (SAW)
Caretaker Prime Minister (PM) Anwaarul Haq Kakar visited Masjid-e-Nabvi SAWW in Madinah, offered Nawafil and paid respects and prayers at Roza-e-Rasool (SAWW).
He also visited the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet (SAW)’s Biography and Islamic Civilization, adjacent to the Masjid-e-Nabvi.
The premier was given a comprehensive briefing about the historical museum, which showcases the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) and different aspects of Islamic civilization.
PM Kakar expressed his deep appreciation for the museum and lauded the efforts made to preserve and present the Islamic heritage.
On the occasion, Secretary Board of Directors of the museum Dr. Nasir Misfir Al-Zahrani presented the Prime Minister with a shield and books, symbolizing the cherished connection between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in promoting Islamic heritage and fostering mutual understanding.
The International Fair and Museum in Madinah offers an immersive experience with interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
It chronicles the Prophet (SAW)’s journey, highlights significant events of his life, his teachings and Islamic civilization’s achievements in various fields.
The museum promotes interfaith dialogue and understanding, fostering respect for diverse beliefs and cultures.
