Foreign Minister’s Message on the Fourth Anniversary of the Peshawar Army Public School Attack

(2018-12-16) On the fourth anniversary of the horrific and barbaric Army Public School (APS) terrorist attack in Peshawar on 16 December 2014, our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and loved ones of all the victims.

The fateful “black day”, which resulted in loss of more than 130 precious lives, continues to remain a scar on the collective memory of the nation. Even after four years, the pain and sorrow of this utterly senselessness and heinous act remains fresh. So does the outrage.

While the attack shocked the whole nation, it also tested the resilience and resolve of Pakistan to fight terrorism and extremism. The country emerged from that test not only intact, but strengthened. The tragedy brought the whole nation together and gave us the direction to eliminate this menace from our territory. The improved security situation in the country and successes achieved against terrorism in the last four years are owed to the martyrs of the APS attack.

On this day we also remember the immense sacrifices rendered by our security forces. It is through their tremendous efforts that we have been able to turn the tide against the menace of terrorism. This fight is not yet over and we will persevere until terrorism is completely eradicated from our country.

The anniversary of this tragic day is also a reminder for the international community that terrorism is a common enemy and must be jointly fought.

As we remember with sorrow the devastating terrorist attack, we must ensure that this should never happen again, so that our children and future generations can live in peace and pursue their dreams without fear. We will never forget the sacrifices made by our innocent children.

Pakistan Zindabad!

Islamabad

16 December 2018

418/2018