Pakistan’s military-backed government of Prime Minister Imran Khan has unveiled what it calls a “first-ever” National Security Policy (NSP), acknowledging that “the use of terrorism has become the preferred policy option for hostile actors”.

In comments echoing India’s position on the issue, the document states: “The most poignant form of effort to undermine social stability and national harmony is terrorism.” In this claim, however, India has repeatedly challenged, Blaming it on Pakistan’s export of terror across borders, the NSP noted: “Pakistan has a zero-tolerance policy towards any group involved in terrorist activities within its borders.”

“In addition to soft incursions through various non-dynamic means, the use of terrorism has become the preferred policy option for hostile actors,” the document states. “Terrorism has also been used to disrupt and delay development programs.”

In the 62-page NSP for 2022-2026, with Jammu and Kashmir as its “core”, India is mentioned at least 16 times, more than any other country. “A just and peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains at the heart of our bilateral relationship,” the NSP said.

Moeed Yusuf, Pakistan’s national security adviser and a former analyst at a U.S. think tank, led the preparation of the document, which will be reviewed annually and whenever a new government is formed.

Complete News Source : The IndianEXPESS