‘Powerful’ country angry because of Russia visit: PM Imran Khan

• PM Khan says "powerful country" had asked him why he visited Russia.
• He says the decisions of previous politicians have led to a situation wherein no foreign country respects Pakistan.
• The premier stresses inclusive prosperity, rule of law and an independent foreign policy are key elements for national security.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan says a "powerful country" is angry with Pakistan because of his recent visit to Russia.

Addressing the Islamabad Security Dialogue Friday, the premier said that the “powerful country” is supporting its ally, India. “Today, I read the statement of the British Foreign Secretary that mentioned that they cannot say anything to India as it is an independent state — I don’t blame them for this support, this is our mistake,” he said.

Taking a jibe at the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Shahbaz Sharif, he said: “Those who are preparing to get to the Prime Minister's Office are giving interviews that my statements will piss off America and Pakistan cannot survive without its support.”

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He further accused the Opposition, saying that these leaders have sacrificed Pakistan’s economy and humiliated the country in the world because of their benefits.

Addressing the ongoing controversy regarding the “threat letter”, apparently sent by the US, the premier said that an honourable person is always respected, questioning if a country can threaten another country.”

On Thursday, talking about the "threatening memo" that the PM claimed to have received against his government from a foreign country, he named the United States to be behind the conspiracy.

Read more: 'Threat letter' —  White House spurns PM Imran Khan's allegation

In an apparent slip of the tongue, he named "the United States..." but quickly moved on and stated that "a foreign country" had sent a "threatening memo" which was against the Pakistani nation.

PM Imran Khan said the decisions of previous politicians have led to a situation wherein no foreign country respects Pakistan. "They order us. They say that if the no-confidence motion does not become successful, there will be consequences for Pakistan."

'Inclusive prosperity, rule of law, independent foreign policy key for security'

He stressed that inclusive prosperity, rule of law and an independent foreign policy are key elements for the national security of any country.

The premier said that unequal development, the increasing gap between the rich and poor and capture of resources by a handful of elite class make a country vulnerable.

He emphasised that society becomes secure and successful when it looks after the weak segments and ensures rule of law.

Read more: Pakistan registers strong protest to US government over 'threat letter'

PM Imran Khan said that without an independent foreign policy, the country cannot protect the interests of its people.

He pointed out that the present government has pursued an independent foreign policy and did not become part of “bloc politics to achieve the same objectives”. As a result of this, he said Pakistan has received a lot of respect and recognition at the international level over the last three-and-a-half years.

Programmes introduced under Imran Khan's tenure

Highlighting the steps taken by his government, PM Imran Khan said: “We have introduced a universal health insurance scheme under which the poor people can also get medical treatment at private hospitals.”

He said our social protection programmes are aimed at uplifting the disadvantaged segments of society. “Our struggle for rule of law is critical and our success in it will take the country forward,” he added.

Earlier, in his remarks, National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf said our national security policy focuses on peace, cooperation and economy. He reiterated that we want cooperation with all the countries.

Read more: PM Imran Khan sabotaged US-Pakistan relations to save his govt, says ex-foreign minister

The national security adviser said that the best experts from around the world as well as intellectuals and cabinet members are attending the security dialogue.

The two-day dialogue will bring together Pakistani and international policy experts to discuss emerging challenges in international security under the theme “Comprehensive Security: Reimagining International Cooperation”.

The Islamabad Security Dialogue is hosting 17 international speakers from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Russia, European Union, Japan, Philippines and others.