ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians Information Secretary Shazia Marri on Friday termed the remarks by the son of PTI founder Imran Khan on the GSP+ status as “regrettable and irresponsible”, warning that such statements could harm Pakistan’s economic interests and global standing.
“Discussing a sensitive matter like GSP+ in a non-serious manner was against the national interest,” she said in a statement. She cautioned that irresponsible commentary on the issue could negatively impact Pakistan’s exports as well as its international credibility. “National interest and the livelihoods of millions cannot be sacrificed for political point-scoring,” she said, adding that such remarks risk undermining confidence in Pakistan’s trade commitments.
She recalled that during challenging times, President Asif Ali Zardari had raised the slogan of unity, emphasising “Pakistan Khappay” as a message of cohesion. In contrast, she said, issuing controversial statements for personal political gains was condemnable. The PPP leader remarked that while Imran Khan’s son does not reside in Pakistan, “we and our children live here, and the country matters to us above all”. She described the statements made from abroad that could damage Pakistan’s image as deeply unfortunate. She asserted that the family members of the PTI founder should face Pakistan’s legal system and courts, terming “external confrontation” unacceptable.
She accused the party of prioritising an individual over the country’s broader political and diplomatic interests. Highlighting what she called “double standards”, Shazia referred to past political positions taken by Imran Khan, including his stance during the London mayoral election. She said everyone knows that he supported the one against Sadiq Khan, and added that such contradictions are not acceptable. She alleged that those who conspire against Pakistan in collaboration with external elements would not be forgiven by the nation.
