Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has called for building bridges of peace and harmony while rejecting extremism and hatred. Addressing National Youth Convention in Islamabad, he said responsibility rests with the youth to promote unity and tolerance. He said we have to undertake joint efforts to take the country towards the path of progress while rising above all sorts of differences. The Deputy Prime Minister expressed government's firm commitment for promotion of quality education to empower the youth. Dar emphasized that anger should never be directed toward one's "motherland" and that violent expressions of discontent will not achieve their objectives. He called for building bridges of understanding and unity, rejecting hatred and division. Reflecting on his visit to Balochistan, Dar acknowledged that some Baloch have resorted to taking up arms, but he reiterated that terrorism is not an acceptable response.

He called for rational discourse and warned against getting caught up in emotional or naive approaches. In his address, Dar also highlighted the significance of education for Pakistan’s youth, stressing the importance of continuous learning. He referred to the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to underscore the timeless value of knowledge. Dar also shared insights from his political career, recalling the 2013 manifesto focused on reducing extremism, stabilizing electricity supply, and strengthening the economy. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s youth, comprising 65% of the population, are the nation’s greatest asset and called on them to contribute positively to the country’s future. In a candid revelation, Dar recounted a critical moment in December 1998 when he, as Finance Minister, was approached to secure funding for Pakistan’s missile program amid severe economic sanctions. Despite the challenges, Dar pledged the required budget in just two years, a promise that played a pivotal role in advancing the country's defense capabilities.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan