Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has reaffirmed government's firm commitment to defeating terrorism in all its forms.

Addressing a conference in Islamabad on Wednesday, he said Pakistan seeks a future free from fear, hate and violence.

He said the remarkable progress, the country has achieved thus far, is a testament to the courage of armed forces, law enforcement agencies and the people. He, however, said the challenges ahead demand national unity, determination and a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of extremism.

The Minister for Planning said the government is investing in curriculum reforms to promote critical thinking, tolerance and pluralism.

Ahsan Iqbal said local communities and religious leaders need to be empowered to counter radicalization at the grassroots level.