Despite Islamabad’s sacrifices, Washington consistently betrayed Pak on strategic priorities, essentially stabbing it in the back: Liaqat Baloch

LAHORE, March 30 (SABAH): Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan’s Acting Emir Liaqat Baloch contends that despite Islamabad’s sacrifices, Washington consistently betrayed Pakistan on strategic priorities, essentially stabbing it in the back.

Responding to United States President Joe Biden’s letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Liaqat Baloch highlighting Pakistan’s significant sacrifices in maintaining relations with the United States, pointed out Washington’s opposition to Pakistan’s nuclear program and America’s favoritism towards India in every situation from 1971 war to spread of terrorism and Kashmir issue.

Therefore, he urged a closer examination of the motives behind the letter, citing historical instances. Baloch criticized America’s utilization of Pakistan to further its interests in Afghanistan, only to sow seeds of animosity against Pakistan after the withdrawal of American and NATO forces. He lamented that instead of pressuring India to address the Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions, US is silent and India has escalated its oppression and atrocities against Kashmiris with impunity.

Regarding vital projects like the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline and the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor, Liaqat Baloch condemned US interference, which he deemed detrimental to Pakistan’s national interests. He highlighted the IMF’s stringent conditions, which have exacerbated Pakistan’s economic woes, while America remains unsupportive.

Liaqat Baloch warned against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif succumbing to American pressure, referencing General Pervez Musharraf’s surrender under similar circumstances. He emphasized Pakistan’s need to assert itself as a dignified, self-respecting nation by addressing internal security and restoring public trust, particularly following concerns of election rigging.

Meanwhile, during a telephonic conversation between Liaqat Baloch and PTI leader Asad Qaiser, both leaders pledged to maintain political contacts between their respective parties. Asad Qaiser expressed a commitment to avoid confusion between the parties in the future.

Liaqat Baloch commended PTI’s struggle for democracy and affirmed JI’s advocacy for the rule of law and civilian supremacy.