Bilawal pays tribute to Karsaz martyrs on 17th anniversary

Islamabad: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy on the 17th anniversary of the horrific attack that claimed the lives of 180 party workers on October 18, 2007.

In a statement commemorating the solemn occasion, Bilawal expressed deep sorrow over the loss and reaffirmed the PPP’s unwavering commitment to democracy, justice, and sacrifice.

He reflected on the tragic day when party workers sacrificed their lives while welcoming former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto back to Pakistan, underscoring the party’s ongoing struggle for democratic values.

“The Karsaz bombing was a calculated conspiracy where dictatorship and terrorists united to strike against the PPP leadership, targeting the truck carrying Shaheed Benazir Bhutto,” Bilawal said in a press release issued by the party’s media cell. “Millions had gathered to greet her, but those who sought to silence democracy with terror failed. Their efforts were futile.”

Bilawal further emphasized that the martyrs of Karsaz continue to inspire the fight against extremism and injustice. “The courage and selflessness of our brave party workers will forever be remembered in our struggle for a peaceful, democratic Pakistan—a struggle that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto led with immense dedication.”

He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to the vision of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, vowing to protect the rights of every Pakistani and uphold democratic values. Bilawal called on the nation to honor the sacrifices of the Karsaz martyrs by continuing their legacy and strengthening the country’s democratic framework.

“As we mark this solemn day, we renew our pledge to safeguard democracy, combat extremism, and ensure that no force can derail the progress of our beloved country,” Bilawal concluded.

‘Whether they blame us or we blame them … ‘: What Bilawal Bhutto said on India-Pak talks amid SCO meet

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday stressed upon the need for reaching a common point between India and Pakistan, especially on climate change and terrorism. Amid the ongoing SCO meet, Bhutto said that the two nations should learn from the success of Shanghai Cooperation Organization and initiate talks.

“A conversation is necessary, whether today or tomorrow, both countries have their opinions on differences but why should we forget that Pakistan and India are the two most-stressed countries due to climate change,” the Pakistan People’s Party chairman told Newswire.

“Terrorism is also a reality, whether they (India) blame us (Pakistan) and we blame RAW (India’s intelligence agency), but the issue exists, so if we engage, we will somehow reach a common point and save precious Indian and Pakistani lives,” he added.

He further expressed hope that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs would engage with Pakistani media and answer their questions, just as he did during his visit to India for the SCO Summit in 2023.

He said that while the Indian minister might bring up terrorism allegations against Pakistan that align with the Indian narrative during this multilateral summit, Pakistan, as the host, would refrain from responding in order to ensure the meeting’s success.

Meanwhile, former caretaker Pakistani PM Anwaar ul Haq Kakar also commented on India-Pakistan relations saying, “As far as Pakistan-India relations are concerned, I don’t think it is overshadowing it, rather it is contributing towards multilateral engagement which includes of course India. India is one of the responsible, important players on this forum and it is diversified engagement which Pakistan is looking for.”