-- Talks with Taliban to continue
An official said that the process of dialogue would continue as neither the government nor Taliban stated that there was a deadlock. The Prime Minister was quoted as saying that the NSC is an apex forum which provides an opportunity to every state institution to provide inputs on issues pertaining to national security and decisions are taken through collective wisdom.
The NSC agreed that peace is of great importance to achieve economic growth and consolidate the gains the present government has made through macro-economic policies. The trust shown by the international community, especially the International Financial Institutions (IFIs), on policies requires an enabling security environment for a sustainable economic growth in the coming years.
Minister for Interior Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan briefed the participants on the internal security situation. Various aspects of the internal security were discussed threadbare, including talks with TTP, in Balochistan insurgency and the situation on the western border.
The Committee reiterated the government's resolve to improve the internal security situation. It was resolved that all policy options will be explored and all available resources will be utilised to ensure peace and security. The Committee endorsed the vision to put Pakistan on the crossroads of opportunities rather than conflicts to spur growth for prosperity of the people.
The NSC meeting reaffirmed the government's resolve to improve relations with neighbouring countries, making Pakistan an anchor of peace and stability in the region. The Pakistan-Afghanistan relations were discussed in light of the recently held Presidential elections in Afghanistan. The meeting also congratulated the Afghan people on successful elections and resolved to strengthen democratic institutions in Afghanistan.
The committee was briefed on the Prime Minister's recent visit to China, especially the Pakistan - China Economic Corridor and $35 billion worth of early harvest projects in energy, road infrastructure and railways. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar briefed the Committee on improving economic indicators and Pakistan's re-entry into the international bond market through a successful launch of Eurobond.
The meeting was attended by the Ministers of Defence, Finance, Interior and Information, the Adviser on National Security & Foreign Affairs, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff and other senior civil and military officials.