Washington DC: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, while giving an interview, defended his remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that he had only stated a historical fact.
Foreign Minister Bilawal arrived in Washington DC on Tuesday where he met the members of the US Congress in which Pakistan-US relations were discussed.
The foreign minister said that Pakistan needs the support of the international community to overcome the challenges arising from the extraordinary floods. He further said that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has also affected the economic situation of the region.
When the minister was questioned about his recent remarks about the Indian Prime Minister, he defended his stand and said that he had only repeated a proven historical fact. He further said that not he but the people of Gujarat coined the term “Butcher of Gujarat” for Modi.
He said that Indian Muslims, especially in Gujarat, are facing violence under the Modi government. He added that he had heard that BJP had put money on his head.
In a press talk on December 16, Foreign Minister Bilawal said that Osama bin Laden is dead, but the butcher of Gujarat – Narendra Modi – is still alive and has become the Prime Minister of India.
JEE News reported that BJP leader Manopal Hansal had announced a reward of 20 million Indian rupees on Bilawal’s head after this comment.
He said that the international community has to ensure food security in the midst of war and global recession. He added that he had already agreed to tough IMF conditions before the flood began and now found himself in an incredibly difficult position. The Government of Pakistan is struggling to provide immediate relief to the flood affected people while fulfilling the IMF conditions.
On a question about early elections in Pakistan, the foreign minister said that they are not in favor of the country. He said that ‘Imran Khan is harming the country with his pointless ‘sarcasm’ only because he is no longer the Prime Minister.
Pakistan’s top diplomat added that at a time when one-third of the country is affected by floods, they should not think about elections.
In Washington, the Foreign Minister also attended the honor dinner given at the residence of Pakistan’s ambassador to the US. The minister met the leaders of the Pakistani-American community and appreciated their contribution to the development of the country.
Met leaders of the Pakistani-American community. We are proud of their success & appreciate their continued support in the national development of Pakistan. Our vibrant Diaspora is an asset for strong Pak-US relations. pic.twitter.com/CpnItjwTOQ
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) December 20, 2022
The foreign minister is expected to address a local think tank today.Â
