Govt defends decision to buy 45 bulletproof vehicles for SCO moot, says available 2016 models 'far below' standards
ISLAMABAD: The government on Wednesday justified its decision to purchase 45 bulletproof vehicles for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Council of Heads of State moot in Islamabad next year, stressing the need for ensuring “maximum possible level of protection” during the summit and citing Pakistan’s “security paradigm”. The justification came in a press release by the Cabinet…
Islamabad: The Pakistani government defended its decision to purchase 45 bulletproof vehicles for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State summit in August-September 2027, emphasizing the necessity for maximum protection during the event. The Cabinet Division released a statement addressing concerns about the purchase, which have appeared in the press and social media.
The government clarified that the SCO gathering, considered one of the most prestigious international events, would provide Pakistan with an opportunity to enhance its global stature and honor. The latest 2016 model bulletproof vehicles currently available in the Cabinet Division were deemed insufficient for the summit's requirements.
Consequently, the Cabinet approved a supplementary grant of over Rs6 billion to acquire 45 bulletproof vehicles meeting the necessary specifications. The remaining 300 vehicles will be rented. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif endorsed the decision on his X account, urging Pakistanis to be proud of the honor bestowed upon the nation.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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