Those behind Sialkot incident to be brought to justice: PM assures SAARC secretary general

By Muhammad JuniadPublished On 05 Jan 2023

Islamabad: Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan said on Friday that those who are responsible for the Sialkot incident will be brought to justice. 

The prime minister stated during a meeting with South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Secretary-General Esala Ruwan Weerakoon. He also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the mutually beneficial goals and objectives embodied in the SAARC Charter

He said that SAARC could provide a conducive and beneficial atmosphere to build economic synergies, transforming the quality of life of people in South Asia. He emphasized strengthening cooperation on issues of common interest including climate change, education, poverty alleviation, energy integration, and health challenges.

The prime minister appreciated SAARC Secretary-General’s efforts to further improve and promote SAARC processes and assured him of continued support of the Government of Pakistan in further strengthening regional cooperation under the SAARC ambit.

He also expressed hope to host SAARC Summit in Pakistan when artificial obstacles created in its way would be removed.

As the SAARC Secretary-General also hails from Sri Lanka, the prime minister strongly condemned the Sialkot incident and expressed condolences on the death of Priyantha Kumara who was tortured to death by a mob.

He also expressed regret over the inhumane murder of a Sri Lankan factory manager in Sialkot. He maintained that there was no justification whatsoever for such acts and that all necessary steps had been taken in order to speedily bring the perpetrators to justice.

On the occasion, the secretary-general thanked the prime minister for his guidance on SAARC related issues and assured him that during his tenure, he would make determined efforts to strengthen the collaboration among member states in different fields for the benefit of all the countries of South Asia region.