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Sharif Approves New Counterterrorism Measures

by AFP
Stan Honda—AFP

Stan Honda—AFP

Prime minister says establishment of high security prisons will be fast-tracked to boost efforts against extremism.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif approved on Tuesday the formation of a rapid response force and a national intelligence directorate to boost efforts against a decade-long extremist insurgency, his office said.

Sharif confirmed the measures during a meeting with the country’s top civil and military officials, and said the establishment of high security prisons would be fast-tracked, his office said in a statement.

“The prime minister said the provincial governments and institutions had to work hard to contribute and establish a secure environment by eliminating terrorism as economic prosperity was linked with security and peace in the country,” the statement said.

The government approved the first National Internal Security Policy last month, which called for the establishment of the response force and of counterterrorism departments within police forces in the next six months. The policy document had criticized the country’s military for being “unable to demonstrate other capabilities essential to successful counter-insurgency: hold, build and integrate,” adding it was up to civil institutions to take up the slack.

The government opened negotiations with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan last month in a bid to end a bloody insurgency that has left thousands dead and cost the economy tens of billions of dollars. The process broke down for more than two weeks after militants killed 23 kidnapped soldiers, but later resumed after the Taliban announced a month-long ceasefire.

In an effort to take the talks to a higher level, the government last week formed a new four-member committee to begin direct contact with the Taliban.

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1 comment

farmerdr March 20, 2014 - 9:38 am

What we ask for from our Prime Minister is that he lead from the front so that his people and soldiers can fall in behind him, united. If he could periodically address the nation and spell out a clear and uncluttered vision of the future he wants for our country; his plan to tackle Terrorism; his views on the justice system; his vision for our education, healthcare and economy it would make a difference.

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