KARACHI, Aug 24 : Minister for information and media development, Nisar A Memon, has said the defence of the country is in safe hands and any provocation would be sternly handled.

Talking to journalists following the inaugural session of the Revascularization Course 2002 here on Saturday, the minister, who is also holding the additional portfolio of the Kashmir and Northern Areas affairs, said the country was well-prepared to repulse any aggression.

He said the ill intentions of India were being exposed to the world and its tactics to bully the neighbouring countries under one or other pretext were also getting evident.

The minister said the government was working quite aggressively, but with all caution, on the diplomatic front and was not willing to budge from its stance.

He said the situation arising out of the recent crossing over of the Line of Control by Indian forces would be raised at international platforms.— APP