FAISLABAD: Talal Chaudhry, federal minister, addressed the media in Faisalabad on Saturday vowing to treat those involved in the attacks on US fast food chain outlets as the incidents have raised concerns about the safety of foreign businesses and investors in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s federal government has strongly condemned the recent wave of attacks on US fast food chain outlets, promising to take strict action against those responsible.
Talal Chaudhry expressed his government’s firm commitment to ensuring the protection of foreign nationals and their investments. He emphasized that such attacks are unacceptable and vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable.
The minister confirmed that nearly 20 attacks had been reported nationwide, including two in Islamabad, which led to the arrest of 15 individuals. These suspects have since shown remorse for their actions and apologized for their involvement.
One of the attacks, which occurred in Sheikhupura, resulted in the death of an employee. Chaudhry highlighted that these attacks were aimed at businesses that had made significant investments in Pakistan, with one foreign food chain having invested over 100 million dollars in the country. He stressed the importance of protecting these investments for the economic well-being of Pakistan.
KFC Rawalpindi Saddar was also under attack by a group of young men who were hurling abuses at the employees and shouting at the customers.
Talal Chaudhry also emphasized that no religious or political party in Pakistan had supported or organised the attacks. He made it clear that the government would ensure that no investor would face insecurity while operating in the country.
During his address, Chaudhry reminded the public that 99 per cent of workers employed at international food chains in Pakistan are Muslims, and a significant portion of profits remain within the country.
He further defended the presence of foreign food chains, stating that they serve a vital role in catering to pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, which contributes to Pakistan’s local economy.
Talal Chaudhry urged all parties to refrain from spreading hate against foreign businesses and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the safety and security of both investors and citizens.
