ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday said the government was responsible for protecting the integrity and respect of the armed forces as they were responsible for the country’s defence and security.

The Prime Minister, in a statement, said the apology tendered by Muttahida Qaumi Movement Chief Altaf Hussain was a good step.

He, however, added that the matter pertaining to the country’s security and national interests was extremely sensitive and one should be careful while saying something on the subject.

Such irresponsible statements, he said, not only hurt the integrity of the national institutions but also the public’s feelings and sentiments.

The Prime Minister also urged the media to fully adhere to the code of conduct in accordance with the Constitution and law, and ensure that no irresponsible statement or anyone speaking against the national interest was promoted.—NNI