Country would not be allowed to destabilize through external conspiracies: Malik.

ISLAMABAD, April 24, 2009 (Balochistan Times) -- Advisor to the Prime Minister on Interior A. Rehman Malik has said the government would have no option but to take action against the Taliban if they violated the swat peace deal and did not lay down their arms as promised by Chief of banned Tehrik-i-Nifaz-i-Shariat-i-Mohammadi Maulana Sufi Muhammad. Talking to media men outside the Parliament house, he said if the Taliban continued their activities and deal is not respected then army action would be taken against them and those who are supporting the militants want to destabilize the country. We had struck the agreement for peace in Swat but we would have to react if peace is not restored, he said. When asked about Taliban had advanced to Dir and Swabi, he said, it is only rumours and they are not taking control of these areas. The Taliban had advanced only to some pockets in Buner and Shangla district and then retuned to Swat, he said. Our security forces, Pakistan army and Parliamentary troops are ready to take meet any untoward situation, he assured the nation. Taliban, he said, have modern weapons, vehicles, radio and they are getting luxury facilities on behalf of some foreign elements. Replying to a question, he said, I have never said Pakhtoons are terrorists and there is clear differences among Taliban, Pakhtoons, terrorists and extremists. Pakhtoons and Balochi are patriotic and they have given enormous sacrifices for country, he said, adding that, some hostile agencies were involved in creating unrest in Balochistan. Replying to another question, he said, security of everyone is important and complete security is being provided to foreigners and investors in Pakistan.

(THROUGH ASIA PULSE)