Islamabad – Top brass of the Pakistan Army Wednesday expressed serious concern over the Kerry-Lugar Bill for fear that it would have far reaching implications on the countryÂ’s national security, and sought the parliament to help the government in evolving national response.
“The Kerry-Lugar bill was discussed during the 122nd Corps Commanders Conference held under the chair of Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani and the Conference expressed serious concern regarding clauses impacting on National Security”, an ISPR press release said.
It said that a formal input is being provided to the Government. However, in the considered view of the commanders it was the Parliament, that represents the will of the people of Pakistan, which would deliberate on the issue, enabling the Government to develop a national response.
Other sources said that the conference examined the most contentious parts of the otherwise pro-democracy document containing three certifications that the US Secretary of State is required to provide to congressional committees for continuing security assistance and the format of monitoring reports.
The certifications include confirmation that Pakistan government continues to cooperate in investigating nuclear proliferators; is making sustained efforts against terrorists, including blocking support allegedly by elements within the military and intelligence network for terrorists, taking action against terrorist bases and acting on intelligence about high-value targets provided to it; and that the security forces are not subverting the political and judicial processes.
General Kayani in his opening remarks dilated upon various issues related to national security and impending challenges faced by the country. He reiterated that Pakistan is a sovereign state and has all the rights to analyse and respond to the threat in accordance with her own national interests.
Kayani in his concluding remarks reiterated that Pakistan stands committed to global and regional peace, and wishes to live in harmony with her neighbours.
The participants were also given a comprehensive briefing on the current security situation in the country and the region.
Meanwhile, TheNation has learnt from well-placed PPP sources that President Asif Ali Zardari who directed his party comrades to defend the KLB tooth and nail the other day, has been disturbed by the Corps CommandersÂ’ concerns.
Insiders believed that the move would not only lead to creating serious cracks in the ruling alliance but within the PPP as well.