In a recent statement, a government spokesperson condemned the allegations made by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Sher Afzal Marwat against Saudi Arabia, labelling them as a “heinous attempt” to disrupt the longstanding relations between the two countries.
Barrister Aqeel Malik, the spokesperson on Legal Affairs, emphasised that Marwat’s remarks came at a critical time, coinciding with a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia visiting Pakistan. Malik characterised Marwat’s comments as a malicious conspiracy aimed at destabilising the national economy.
Highlighting what he termed as a pattern of irresponsible behaviour within the PTI ranks, Malik criticised the party for its alleged history of damaging relations with friendly nations. He claimed that the PTI has consistently acted against Pakistan’s interests, citing instances such as protests against international agreements and baseless accusations against foreign partners.
Marwat had alleged Saudi Arabia’s involvement in a purported regime change operation in 2022 when the PTI government was removed through a vote of no confidence. Malik denounced these claims as baseless and harmful to the ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment, particularly from Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, Malik accused the PTI of undermining the government’s efforts to secure agreements with international financial institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to prevent economic instability. He criticised the party for its past actions, including protests and allegations that could potentially deter foreign investment and jeopardise economic progress.
Malik concluded by condemning what he described as the PTI’s tendency to prioritise its own interests over those of the nation, citing previous incidents such as protests against infrastructure projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He warned against the party’s alleged habit of acting against Pakistan’s interests and later retracting its statements, calling for a more responsible approach to governance.