Larkana, December 27, 2024: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari accused the United States of meddling in Pakistan’s political affairs, claiming that the country’s nuclear capabilities are the primary target of such actions.
Speaking at a commemoration event marking the 17th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto at Garhi Khuda Bux, Bilawal said, “As long as the PPP exists, we will never compromise on Pakistan’s nuclear power or missile program.”
The remarks come in the wake of US sanctions announced on December 18 against four Pakistani entities, allegedly linked to the development and proliferation of ballistic missiles. Additionally, senior White House official Jon Finer accused Pakistan of developing long-range missiles capable of striking beyond South Asia, including the US.
“They are looking at our achievements with ill intentions and using any excuse to strip us of our strength,” Bilawal said, calling for political unity to counter foreign interference. He stressed that critical national decisions should be made through consensus.
Bilawal indirectly criticized Richard Grenell, the incoming US envoy for special missions, who has publicly supported the release of PTI founder Imran Khan. “Foreign nations are using comments on our internal politics as an excuse to target our nuclear program,” he asserted.
Grenell has been vocal about Pakistan’s missile program and Imran Khan’s imprisonment, gaining significant attention among PTI supporters. Responding to these developments, Bilawal said, “They do not care about human rights or prisoners. Imran Khan is merely a pretext; their real aim is to undermine our atomic program.”
He further accused PTI of aligning with foreign interests, alleging that the party is lobbying for governments seeking to weaken Pakistan. “Imran Khan should clarify his stance on missile technology introduced by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto,” Bilawal added.
Paying homage to his mother, Bilawal highlighted Benazir Bhutto’s contributions, including bringing missile technology to Pakistan and her historic achievement as the first Muslim woman to serve as prime minister.
“Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave us nuclear technology, and Benazir Bhutto brought us missile technology,” he said. “Those who martyred her believed they could silence the voices of Pakistanis forever, but they were mistaken.”
