Yesterday in Quebec City, Liberal leader Stephane Dion hinted that NATO might consider military action in Pakistan, if Pakistan cannot control its porous border with Afghanistan: “We are going to have to discuss that very actively if they (the Pakistanis) are not able to deal with it on their own,” Dion said in French. “We could consider that option with the NATO forces in order to help Pakistan help us pacify Afghanistan.”
The Pakistan High Commission is not amused:
We are dismayed by the statement of the leader of opposition, Mr. Stephane Dion about NATO intervention in Pakistan. It shows a lack of understanding of the ground realities. We have, at the highest level, made it clear that Pakistan will not allow any foreign forces to operate within its territory under any circumstances. The sovereignty of the state will not be compromised at any level as the government and people of Pakistan are fully capable of handling their security matters themselves.
Pakistan is a peace-loving country and has joined the international community in the war against terrorism as an equal partner. The contribution made by Pakistan in this regard has been recognized throughout the world.
The price paid by Pakistan being a frontline state cannot be undermined by certain irrational comments.
Pakistan has been saying all along that the problem lies inside Afghanistan and the solution should come from there too. It is because of the security situation there that Pakistan is facing heat across the border.