PTI ban issue 'didn't come under discussion' during cabinet meeting

• No visa fees to be taken from 126 countries: PM Shehbaz.
• PM condemns attack on Pakistani consulate in Germany.
• "We will not back down to protect Pakistan's interests."

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet did not discuss about the government's decision to ban the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) during its meeting, sources told Geo News on Wednesday. 

A meeting of the federal cabinet was held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif today, in which several other important issues were discussed.

Furthermore, the discussion about the cases being filed under Article 6 (treason) against PTI founder Imran Khan, former president Arif Alvi and then National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri, did not come under discussion. 

There were reports that the matter of banning the Imran Khan-founded party will come under cabinet's discussion today after Information Minister Attaullah Tarar's announcement that the government has made up its mind to go forward with its "principled" decision.

The minister's remarks follow his last week's announcement regarding imposing a ban on the former ruling party stressing that the "PTI and Pakistan could not co-exist".

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address, said that the government would not allow anyone to work against Pakistan, its people, and its army. 

The premier made these comments as he recalled the May 9 incident and how the PTI conducted crimes against the country, civilians and the Pakistan Army. 

He said that the PTI's official website has talked against the army chief and his family. "We will not back down to protect Pakistan's interests," he added. 

PM Shehbaz also spoke the recent attack on Pakistani consulate in Germany and condemned the incident.  

"These are terrible incidents and it is our duty to ensure the security of embassies," he highlighted. 

The premier also shed light on the recent relaxation in the visa fees, saying that about 126 countries will not be charged with the fees to attract more tourists. 

"Visa fee will not be charged from tourists and businessmen coming from abroad," said the premier, adding that the economic activities will accelerate in the country.

He said that the cabinet will give its approval regarding the visa policy.