Govt committed to thwart terrorism, says Shahzad
By Asim Hussain

ISLAMABAD—The government is committed to equip law enforcement agencies with the techniques and methods being used to thwart the evil designs of anti-state elements.
It was stated by Dr. Shehzad Waseem, Minister of state for interior here Friday while speaking as chief guest at the Graduation ceremony of Anti-Terrorism Assistance Programme of Preventing, Interdicting and Investigating Act of Terrorism Course-ATA 5195 held here from August 29,2005 to October 28, 2005.
He said in the post 9/11 scenario, Pakistan has become a front-line state in the war against terrorism and is actively fighting to wipe out the threat of terrorism.
The 19 participants of the course were given a comprehensive knowledge by the US experts of various topics including police surveillance techniques and operations, trans-border cooperation and extradition, responding to a cyber terrorist attack and establishing an incident command post.
The minister urged the participants to exhibit responsible attitude for the security and well being of the people residing in their areas of jurisdiction. He lauded the US contribution in the fight against terrorism who are with great sincerity helping Pakistan and its law enforcement agencies through capacity building courses.
Course Coordinator Calvin Poissot said that his team tried to develop trust among the participants of the course so that their mutual and friendly coordination in future could help to wipe out threat of terrorism.
He said professional approach was adopted to enhance the capabilities of participants in attaining a greater understanding of current and emerging trends in terrorism and to equip participants to counter the terrorist related crimes.
Calvin Poissot also expressed his sympathy and condolence over the loss of life and property in the earthquake. Later, talking to journalist, Shehzad Waseem said that US is fully assisting Pakistan in relief operation at the quake-hit areas and providing technical support in reopening the roads. To a question, he said that help of NATO forces would be helpful in expediting the relief operation at quack-hit areas.
He said the death toll from massive earthquake has increased to 55,000 with injuries put to 78,000 people.