Islamabad, June 2 (Agencies): Pakistan government will “think whether there is any need” for a military operation in North Waziristan and not take dictation from anyone on launching a campaign against militants in the tribal region, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said. The government will take action wherever and whenever its writ is challenged, Gilani said last night during an appearance on “Prime Minister Online”, a monthly TV show in which the Premier interacts with callers from across the country.
Asked about reports that a military operation is imminent in North Waziristan tribal agency, he said: “We will think whether there is any need for it. We will not interfere in the matter unnecessarily.” He said the government is not taking dictation from anybody for action in North Waziristan. “We are not fond of any military action and we want to have an exit strategy,” he added.
Gilani said his government is following the policy of “dialogue, development and deterrence” to bring militants into the mainstream. His remarks follow media reports that said Pakistan had agreed to a US demand to launch an operation in North Waziristan.
Asked about reports that a military operation is imminent in North Waziristan tribal agency, he said: “We will think whether there is any need for it. We will not interfere in the matter unnecessarily.” He said the government is not taking dictation from anybody for action in North Waziristan. “We are not fond of any military action and we want to have an exit strategy,” he added.
Gilani said his government is following the policy of “dialogue, development and deterrence” to bring militants into the mainstream. His remarks follow media reports that said Pakistan had agreed to a US demand to launch an operation in North Waziristan.
