Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has urged political leaders to put aside personal differences and unite against the rising threat of terrorism, which he described as a national security crisis.

Speaking at an Iftar dinner at the Governor House in Lahore, Bilawal noted the PPP's important role in national politics, emphasising the need for dialogue between the government and opposition to address national issues, particularly terrorism and economic instability.

Call for political unity

Bilawal pointed out that while terrorism is resurging in parts of the country, political parties remain divided. He stressed that terrorist organizations are actively disrupting the peace in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan cannot afford political instability at such a crucial time.

"We have defeated terrorism before, and we will defeat it again," Bilawal asserted, calling for a collective national effort to counter militancy. He also criticized political parties for prioritizing personal and partisan issues over the country’s challenges, urging them to focus on public welfare instead.

Offer to mediate between govt, opposition

During his address, Bilawal offered to play a role in bridging the gap between the government and opposition. He revealed that the PPP has offered Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that it will do whatever it can to facilitate political dialogue, especially regarding national security concerns.

"The government should reach out to the political parties that did not attend the National Security Committee meeting," Bilawal suggested, emphasizing that these discussions are crucial for forming a national security strategy.

He further advised the prime minister to call another meeting, even after a month, to ensure that all political stakeholders are involved in addressing the issue of terrorism. "The threat of terrorism has become a national security crisis," he asserted. 

Criticism of opposition’s approach

Bilawal also took a veiled jab at the opposition, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), stating that their focus on securing the release of their leader should not come at the cost of addressing Pakistan’s real issues.

"People are struggling with poverty, unemployment, and terrorism, yet political divisions have made it difficult to form a consensus on national issues," he remarked. He appealed to opposition leaders to move beyond narrow-minded politics and work towards a united front for the greater good of the nation.

Bilawal also spoke about governance in Punjab, highlighting the importance of keeping Governor House accessible to the people. He emphasized that after the 18th Amendment, the Governor House may not have many resources, but the Punjab governor should still strive to win the people's trust and serve them with dedication.

"The Punjab governor should keep the doors of Governor House open for the public and rule over their hearts," he said, reinforcing the need for inclusive leadership.

Solutions

Bilawal concluded by stating that the PPP remains committed to addressing Pakistan’s pressing issues, including terrorism and the economic crisis. He reassured that his party will continue its efforts to find practical solutions and contribute positively to the government’s policies.

"As a responsible political party, we can provide constructive input to the government, and we also invite the opposition to abandon the politics of division," he said.