ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated on Thursday that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir facilitated discussions with Sri Lanka, leading to the cricket team’s decision to remain in Pakistan for the ongoing matches.
Addressing the Senate session on Thursday, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that Field Marshal Asim Munir himself spoke to the Sri Lankan defence minister and secretary and convinced them and assured them of providing full security to the team.
Naqvi, who is also the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, said while speaking on the Senate floor that the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and Islamabad police together were managing their security, and they were providing them the same kind of protocol and security as they were state guests.
Naqvi also spoke to the media after the senate session, “The visit of the Sri Lankan team was very important for us,” Mr Naqvi said, adding that the Sri Lankan president, government and cricket board had left the final decision to the players.
He said that Pakistani officials had given a detailed briefing to the Sri Lankan delegation and players last night, addressing all their concerns. “All their reservations were removed,” he added.
“I thank all the Sri Lankan players on behalf of myself and the entire nation. They have taken a bold and commendable decision,” the minister stated.
Mr Naqvi emphasised that security arrangements were already comprehensive, but the government would “leave no stone unturned” to ensure the safety of all participants and venues.
Referring to recent terror incidents, the home minister confirmed that the suicide attacks on Wana Cadet College and the Judicial Complex were carried out by Afghan nationals.
“Both these attacks have been verified,” he said, adding that negotiations with those responsible are out of the question. “It is not possible that they attack us and we negotiate with them,” he asserted.
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