No talks with terrorists: Rehman Malik

Last Updated: Thursday, November 26, 2009, 23:04

Peshawar: Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik today ruled out the possibility of talks with anti-state elements and terrorists and said their designs against the country were bound to fail.

Malik, who was in this northwestern city on a day-long visit to assess the security situation, made it clear that the government has no intention to hold talks with terrorists.

The government is determined to root out anti-state elements and terrorists, he said.

He said the government had foiled a conspiracy to destabilise the country and also urged illegal Afghan migrants to leave Pakistan "without any further delay".

Malik held meetings with North West Frontier Province Governor Owais Ghani and Chief Minister Amir Haider Khan Hoti and discussed the strategy to eliminate terrorism from the region.

In a brief chat with reporters after meeting victims of recent terrorist attacks at the Lady Reading Hospital here, Malik said the ongoing military operation in South Waziristan was not directed against a particular tribe but was against forces trying to weaken the country.

He sought the help of Islamic clerics and scholars in curbing militancy and supporting the armed forces.

"Terrorists have failed in their motives due to the timely action of the government. The people and the Pakistan Army deserve appreciation for this," he said.

PTI

First Published: Thursday, November 26, 2009, 23:04