PTI is lobbying to get Pakistan’s GSP+ status withdrawn, claims Ata Tarar.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has raised concerns regarding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) alleged efforts to undermine Pakistan’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Plus status with the European Union.
This status, aimed at fostering good governance and sustainable development through trade facilitation, has been pivotal for Pakistan since its inception in 2014, and its extension until 2027 signifies its significance in bolstering the country’s export market.
Speaking to media persons in Islamabad, Tarar said: “PTI spokespersons are getting instructions from jail to harm Pakistan and a conspiracy is being hatched so that the country’s GSP+ status is withdrawn.”
“PTI has used the [lack of] facilities being provided to PTI founder [Imran Khan] in jail as an excuse to attack Pakistan’s GSP+ status,” claimed the information minister.
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Tarar accused PTI of orchestrating a campaign to discredit the government by leveraging purported grievances surrounding the treatment of PTI founder Imran Khan in prison.
He claimed that PTI’s agenda, even from within confinement, is aimed at tarnishing Pakistan’s international standing and jeopardizing its economic prospects.
The minister’s assertions include claims that PTI has fabricated allegations regarding Khan’s purportedly preferential treatment in prison, including access to personal amenities such as a kitchen, additional living space, and recreational facilities.
Tarar dismissed these claims as unfounded, emphasizing that they are part of a broader strategy to undermine public confidence in the government.
Moreover, Tarar accused PTI of engaging in actions detrimental to Pakistan’s economic stability, alleging that the party attempted to subvert the country’s economic recovery efforts by allegedly corresponding with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in what he described as a “heinous conspiracy.”
In contrast, Tarar highlighted the proactive approach of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in addressing economic challenges, citing his consistent engagement in meetings focused on combating inflation and unemployment.
PTI lobbying to get Pakistan’s GSP+ status withdrawn, claims Ata Tarar.
The minister said that “a few elements were harming the country for their political purposes and they tried to lead the country to default”.
“A political party does not see the national interest nor does it care about economic recovery,” said Tarar, adding that PTI made a heinous conspiracy by writing a letter to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking about the current situation, Tarar said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif holds three to four meetings on the country’s economy every day. “The premier is working to end inflation and unemployment,” he said.
This portrayal seeks to reinforce the narrative that the current government is committed to advancing Pakistan’s economic interests despite alleged opposition from PTI.
Tarar’s remarks underscore the escalating political tensions in Pakistan, with PTI and the government locked in a battle over the country’s economic trajectory and international standing.
The allegations and counter-allegations put forth by both sides signal a heightened state of political confrontation, with far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s governance and economic stability.
