MANSEHRA: The Pakhtuns should shun Kalashnikov and pick pen if they wanted to revive their past glory, said Pashto International Conference chairman and noted writer Salim Raz.

“No doubt Pakhtuns are still a brave nation and their past is still shining because of their bravery and unmatched courage but it is not time to win the hearts and minds of others through Kalashnikov,” he told a literary session organised by a Sabawon Pashto Adabi Tolana in Oghi on Sunday.

Poets from Hazara and Malakand divisions took part in the session.

Mr Raz, who was chief guest on the occasion, said that it was unfortunate that a handful of people were exploiting the great nation for their vested interests.

“The enemies of our motherland are instigating the youth of this brave nation by recalling stories of their forefathers but now bravery doesn’t mean using a Kalashnikov,” he said.He said that America became the policemen of the world by getting power through making achievements in the field of science and technology.

Mr Raz said that political parties were not promoting real democracy in the county as those had become the family limited companies.

He said that the country was passing through a critical juncture of its history. He said that he had attached hopes with the youth instead of political parties. He said that youth could steer the country out of crises.

“The poets, scholars and writers should come forward to guide the nation as our leaders are only promoting their own vested interests instead of developing unity and brotherhood in the nation,” he said.

He said that Pashto International Conference was striving to promote the true culture of Pakhtuns. —Correspondent