Fitna-tul-Hind and TTP’: Analysts Highlight National Response at Lahore Event

LAHORE-(Asif Iqbal Ch)-Promoting national unity, encouraging fact-based dialogue, and effectively countering hostile narratives are essential to Pakistan’s path toward peace and development. These themes were highlighted during a panel discussion organized by the Press Information Department (PID) Lahore on Wednesday. Titled “Fitna-tul-Hind and TTP: Pakistan’s Response for Peace, Progress and Prosperity,” the session addressed the impact of terrorism and disinformation, and explored strategic responses to emerging threats. In his opening remarks, DG PID Lahore Shafqat Abbas welcomed the panelists and emphasized the need for informed public discourse to safeguard Pakistan’s internal stability.

The panel featured prominent analysts, journalists, and experts, including Salman Malik, Salman Ghani, Noor Ullah, Mehdi Hassan, Ayesha Jami, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, Khalid Qayyum, Dr Ahmad Basra, and Qaisar Sharif. Each speaker offered insight into countering propaganda and fostering national resilience.
Khalid Qayyum, a senior journalist, highlighted how recent tensions with India have exposed the aggressor in the region, bolstering Pakistan’s international standing. Mehdi Hassan debunked claims of Pakistan’s global isolation, noting the country’s growing influence in trade and diplomacy.

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In his keynote address, senior columnist Salman Ghani discussed the post-May 10 landscape, describing Pakistan as a nation revitalised with unity and purpose. He stressed that India fears a stable Pakistan and urged a shift toward building economic strength alongside military prowess.

Dr Ayesha Jami addressed the internal challenges of “Fitna-tul-Hind”, emphasising the role of AI and credible data in projecting Pakistan’s narrative globally and countering misinformation online. Noor Ullah highlighted the global shift of power from West to East, noting the superiority of Eastern technology over Western systems in critical areas.

Dr Ahmad Basra underscored the public’s role in shaping national narratives on social media, commending their responsibility and resolve. Dr Qaisar Sharif called for a clear action plan to build on Pakistan’s strengths and sustain national unity.

In his closing remarks, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami praised Pakistan’s consistent diplomacy and foreign policy, emphasising that sustained efforts are key to long-term success. He also warned of the growing terrorism threat, urging a united front to safeguard the nation’s peace.
The event concluded with Shafqat Abbas presenting a memento to Salman Ghani, honoring his recent Sitara-e-Imtiaz award for outstanding contributions to journalism.