Externally-sponsored terrorism a threat to Pakistan: Sharif

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has told a Pakistani envoys conference here that externally-sponsored terrorism is a major threat to the nation, and could come in the way of its prosperity.

In an indirect broadside, Sharif said that the nation's citizens and he were dismayed by the recent irresponsible and imprudent statements made by the Indian political leadership.

He warned that this would vitiate the atmosphere and take both nations and the neighbourhood further away from the goals of regional peace and stability.

According to the Dawn, he said that Pakistan would protect its vital interests at all costs, and would not abandon its high moral ground because of provocations.

Pakistan, he said, is keen on retaining a peaceful neighborhood based on the principles of reciprocity and promotion of bilateral dialogue.

He also described the projected China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a transformational mega project, and a game changer for Pakistan and for the region.

Apart from improving ties with Afghanistan, the government is giving the highest priority to security and energy, the Prime Minister said.