Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has warned that terrorism poses an "existential threat" to Pakistan.
Sharif said in his first address to the nation on August 19 that "Pakistan faces grim threats.... Its existence is in danger due to terrorism."
However, he said he was ready for dialogue with "all those elements who have unfortunately adopted the path of extremism."
Sharif also said that reviving a crippling economy and eradicating corruption were among the challenges facing his government.
Sharif took office in June after his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party won parliamentary elections.
He campaigned for a historic third term as prime minister by offering peace talks to the Pakistani Taliban.
Sharif said in his first address to the nation on August 19 that "Pakistan faces grim threats.... Its existence is in danger due to terrorism."
However, he said he was ready for dialogue with "all those elements who have unfortunately adopted the path of extremism."
Sharif also said that reviving a crippling economy and eradicating corruption were among the challenges facing his government.
Sharif took office in June after his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party won parliamentary elections.
He campaigned for a historic third term as prime minister by offering peace talks to the Pakistani Taliban.