Military courts exist globally, Tarar says

The Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, on Thursday dismissed concerns over any extra-constitutional actions in Pakistan, asserting that military courts are a globally recognised norm.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the federal information minister assured the nation that all legal rights, including the right to appeal, are being upheld for the accused.

Addressing a news conference, Tarar stated that Pakistan continues to adhere to international agreements. “Our priority remains the protection of the nation’s interests,” he said.

Earlier today, at the inauguration of the Yunus Emre Institute, Turkish Culture Center, at Allama Iqbal Open University, Tarar highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Türkiye.

“This bond has its roots even before Pakistan’s creation,” he said, recalling the Khilafat Movement when Muslims of the subcontinent supported their Turkish brethren.

He praised the mutual respect and warmth shared by the two nations, emphasising cultural and historical ties. “The hearts of Pakistanis and Turks beat in unison,” Tarar added.

The minister revealed plans to enhance bilateral cultural exchanges. He proposed dubbing classic PTV dramas into Turkish and lauded Turkish television productions for their popularity in Pakistan.

Referring to the symbolic grave of Allama Iqbal in Konya, Türkiye, he noted the philosophical connection between Iqbal and Rumi, underscoring the shared cultural heritage.

Tarar expressed optimism about the role of the Yunus Emre Institute in fostering people-to-people connections. He called for literary conferences, think tank collaborations, and bilateral tourism to further strengthen ties.