Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan has said that Pakistan’s youth want stability, development and economic opportunities rather than political agitation, stressing that national progress must not be undermined by violence and unrest.
LAHORE, Oct 11 (APP):Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan has said that Pakistan’s youth want stability, development and economic opportunities rather than political agitation, stressing that national progress must not be undermined by violence and unrest.
Addressing Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) workers in PP-172 constituency here on Sunday, he said the country was moving towards a new phase of development and efforts to destabilise Pakistan would not be allowed to succeed. He said the PML-N believed in political dialogue and democratic processes, but political differences should not be used to justify violence, vandalism or attacks on national institutions. The country was facing multiple challenges, and the government was working continuously to address them, he added.
Rana Mashhood said national unity was essential for Pakistan’s progress, adding that attempts to divide people on linguistic, religious or regional grounds were contrary to the country’s interests. Pakistan belonged to all its provinces and communities, and every citizen deserved equal rights and opportunities, he maintained. He said Punjab had consistently welcomed people from other provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who benefited from healthcare, education and business facilities. Every individual had the right to advance through merit and hard work, he added.
Commenting on the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he said questions had been raised about administrative performance and the writ of the government in several districts. He stressed that individuals involved in anti-Pakistan activities should face action in accordance with the law.
Referring to the May 9 incidents, unrest in Balochistan and terrorism, he said the law must take its course against those involved in violence and activities against the country. He emphasised that national security and political differences should be treated as separate matters and that human rights principles must apply equally to all citizens. He said the PML-N leadership and thousands of its workers had faced arrests and legal cases in the past but had defended themselves through the courts. Political actors should pursue constitutional and legal remedies rather than resort to agitation, he added.
Rana Mashhood said Pakistan’s international standing was improving, with several countries viewing it as an important partner in promoting regional peace and stability. Referring to defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and agreements with other countries, he said Pakistan’s handling of recent tensions with India had enhanced its international stature.
He said Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir were working to promote peace in the region and the wider world, expressing hope that diplomatic efforts would help reduce international tensions.
The chairman said 10 million people had registered under the Prime Minister’s Petrol Relief Programme, adding that the government was taking measures to provide relief to citizens and reduce economic hardships. He also said development projects were being undertaken in PP-172 to improve facilities for local residents.
Referring to Rana Asadullah Khan, he said their longstanding association and cooperation was a source of pride and described it as an honour for the constituency that a local personality was serving as chairman of the Federal Service Tribunal.
He urged party workers to focus on public service, employment opportunities for young people and national development, saying Pakistan could overcome its challenges through unity, political wisdom, the rule of law and economic progress.