CONSIDERING THE COUNTRY’S CURRENT INTERNAL SECURITY SITUATION IN PAKISTAN ARMED FORCES MUST NOT BE DEPLOYED IN IRAQ – MQM

Karachi – 2^nd August 2004
The MQM in its emergency meeting unanimously decided that the government of Pakistan must not deploy its armed forces in any foreign land including Iraq, considering that the country is currently facing serious sensitive security issues.  The meeting was attended by the members of MQM Central Coordination Committee, MQM senators, member of national and provincial assemblies, ministers and advisors.  They made an in depth assessment of all the facets and implications of sending the armed forces into Iraq.  The gathering condemned the assassination of two Pakistanis – Raja Azad and Naeem and expressed their condolences to the bereaved families.

They stated that the MQM does not condone any form of terrorism, whether inside the country or outside.  Pakistan is stepping shoulder to shoulder with the International Community in the fight against terrorism.  But presently Pakistan is confronted with innumerable internal problems.  The country is not in full control of its internal security matters and is targeted by armed extremist forces.  The situation in Wana (tribal areas of Pakistan bordering Afghanistan) is precarious.  Assassination attacks upon the top ranking personnel are continuing.  Even President of Pakistan and Corp Commanders are not safe from ongoing suicidal attacks.  Recently Prime Minister designate, Shaukat Aziz was a victim of suicide attack near Attock that resulted in the deaths of eight persons.

The precarious internal security condition demands that Pakistan armed forces are not deployed in Iraq.  Furthermore, the gathering pointed out that the people of Pakistan in general are protesting against any deployment of forces in Iraq.  In Iraq itself the lives of foreigners are not safe.  They are being continuously abducted and executed, sending a message to all foreign countries not to deploy their forces in Iraq.

The Iraqi armed fighters are also insisting upon those countries, who have deployed their forces, to recall them.  The MQM, therefore considers that deployment of armed forces in Iraq is not in the national interest.  However, if the decision is made despite MQM’s warning, it would be unwise and contrary to the ground realities.  Such decision would have adverse affects in the long run, that would enhance rift between Muslim countries.  The MQM joint session declared that they are in step with the International Community in fight against terrorism and we should continue to support the cause within the country’s border.  We must not take any action that would jeopardise the security and stability of the country.  However, if still the government is considering deploying forces in Iraq, then this matter should be put forward to the people in a referendum. 

Finally, the session concluded that MQM is a party of principles and despite being a coalition partner in the present government it would not favour any decision that it considers not in the wider interest of the country.