In a press conference held in Islamabad on March 13, 2024, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of plotting to revoke Pakistan’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Plus status with the European Union.
Tarar claimed that PTI representatives were allegedly orchestrating this scheme from jail, aiming to harm the country’s economy. He asserted that PTI’s purported efforts stemmed from false narratives and attempts to exploit facilities provided to PTI founder, Imran Khan, in prison.
According to Tarar, PTI’s alleged campaign was based on unfounded claims regarding Khan’s prison accommodations, which Tarar described as luxurious compared to standard conditions.
He highlighted discrepancies in meeting privileges and security protocols, dismissing PTI’s criticisms as baseless and politically motivated. Tarar emphasized Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s dedication to economic recovery, contrasting it with what he depicted as PTI’s disregard for national interests.
In response, a PTI spokesperson refuted Tarar’s allegations, denying any intention to petition the European Union and dismissing Tarar’s statements as deceitful. The spokesperson defended PTI’s patriotism and contribution to the country, citing Khan’s role in supporting the International Monetary Fund program.
Additionally, the spokesperson criticized former Finance Minister Ishaq Dar’s handling of the IMF program, attributing delays to his purported incompetence.
Amidst conflicting claims and political tensions, the controversy surrounding Pakistan’s GSP+ status underscores broader ideological divides and power struggles within the country’s political landscape.
