On Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan has always sought peace in the region and is ready to engage in discussions with India about all bilateral matters, provided India approaches the table with genuine intent and cooperation.
Speaking at the second trilateral summit in Lachin city, Azerbaijan, the prime minister addressed India’s recent aggressive actions. He expressed gratitude for Allah Almighty’s blessings, the support of the Pakistani people, friendly nations, and the steadfast response of the armed forces, which led to their victory.
In his address, the prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s desire for regional peace, highlighting the necessity of dialogue to tackle pressing issues that require urgent attention and amicable solutions, such as the Kashmir conflict. He stressed that this matter should be resolved in accordance with UNSC resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He lamented that India has attempted to weaponize the Indus Waters Treaty, which is crucial for the 240 million people in Pakistan who rely on its water for agriculture, drinking, and other essential needs.
“It’s truly unfortunate that India has threatened to halt the flow of water into Pakistan. This is simply not feasible, and it will never happen, Insha’Allah. We are taking the necessary steps to ensure that India cannot do this,” he asserted firmly.
The prime minister also mentioned that if India is sincere about discussing counter-terrorism, Pakistan is open to those conversations as well.
“We are the largest victims of terrorism globally, having lost 90,000 precious lives and incurred $150 billion in economic losses over the decades. Our commitment to combat this menace is unwavering,” he added.
He concluded by stating that if India demonstrates serious and honest cooperation, Pakistan would be ready to discuss all issues, including the promotion of trade, at the negotiation table.
The prime minister expressed that during the conflict with India, he viewed the Field Marshal as someone who was ‘God-fearing, fearless, and steadfast, possessing an iron will, patience, and the strength to confront that aggression.’
He emphasized that in the recent conflict, India was unable to present any credible evidence against Pakistan and dismissed their genuine proposal for a neutral and transparent investigation into the so-called Pahalagam incident by an international body.
Azerbaijan’s Independence Day
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for unity, peace, and justice in the region, while also underscoring the growing ties between Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, describing their relationship as “three souls and one heart.”
In his speech at the Independence Day Ceremony of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Lachin, Prime Minister Shehbaz celebrated the courage and leadership of the Azerbaijani people, who, under President Aliyev’s “visionary and dynamic leadership,” successfully reclaimed the Karabakh region after years of occupation.
Among the dignitaries present were President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye.
“It’s a tremendous honor to be here today, celebrating both Azerbaijan’s Independence Day and Pakistan’s Youm-e-Takbeer – the day we became a nuclear power back in 1998,” the Prime Minister remarked, highlighting the deep significance of May 28 for both countries.
During his address, the Prime Minister extended warm congratulations to the people of Azerbaijan and paid homage to the sacrifices made by their armed forces and martyrs. He stressed the steadfast support that Pakistan and Turkey offered during Azerbaijan’s fight for its territorial integrity.
“When Armenia launched an attack on Azerbaijan, Pakistan and Turkey stood firm beside them. And today, as India has attacked Pakistan, President Erdogan and President Aliyev have stood like a strong fortress beside us. This is what true brotherhood looks like,” Shehbaz Sharif stated.
The Prime Minister also spoke openly about the recent tensions between India and Pakistan. He referenced the tragic incident on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians lost their lives, condemning India’s quick blame on Pakistan without any proof.
“Pakistan proposed an international inquiry commission for a fair and transparent investigation, but instead, India launched a brutal attack that resulted in the deaths of 36 innocent Pakistanis, including children,” he shared. “We had no option but to defend our nation.”
Shehbaz elaborated on Pakistan’s military actions, highlighting the downing of six Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales, and the considerable damage inflicted on Indian military facilities. He commended the poise and leadership of Pakistan’s armed forces, especially Air Chief and Field Marshal COAS Asim Munir, for their quick and calculated response.
“At 9 a.m., Field Marshal Asim Munir informed me that India had requested a ceasefire. I responded, ‘Allah Almighty has granted us a shining victory – we must now proceed wisely and avoid dragging out the conflict.'”
Sharif also shifted focus to other pressing global humanitarian issues, particularly in IIOJK and Gaza.
“The valley of Kashmir is stained with the blood of freedom fighters. Despite oppression and violence, they remain steadfast in their quest for freedom — a right recognized in UN Security Council resolutions,” he stated, reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast support.
In addressing the tragedy in Gaza, PM Shehbaz condemned the ongoing atrocities: “Over 52,000 Palestinians — children, women, the elderly — have been martyred. Their blood stains the streets of Gaza. There is no modern precedent for this level of brutality.”
He urged the international community to awaken its conscience and echoed global admiration for President Erdogan’s outspoken support for the oppressed. “Let our voices rise — in the name of God — to demand a ceasefire and justice for the people of Gaza.”
Describing the trilateral meeting between Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan as “productive and inspiring,” PM Shehbaz wrapped up his address with a call for regional unity and lasting friendship.
“Our flags today wave high symbols of unity, hope, and strength,” he declared, adding, “We will continue to stand with our brothers and sisters, whether in Karabakh, Kashmir, or Gaza. This is our shared commitment, our shared destiny.”
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Q1. What was the key message from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s speech?
PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s consistent desire for regional peace, readiness for dialogue with India, and firm commitment to counter-terrorism. He also highlighted Pakistan’s solidarity with Azerbaijan and Turkey, reaffirming support for Kashmir, Karabakh, and Gaza.
Q2. What conditions did PM Shehbaz set for talks with India?
He stated that Pakistan is open to comprehensive dialogue only if India shows genuine intent and cooperation. All bilateral matters, including Kashmir, are open for discussion.
Q3. What is Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir conflict?
The Prime Minister reiterated that the Kashmir issue should be resolved under UN Security Council resolutions and in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Q4. What did PM Shehbaz say about the Indus Waters Treaty?
He accused India of trying to weaponize the treaty by threatening to halt water flow into Pakistan a move he described as unacceptable and unfeasible, vowing to take steps to prevent it.
Q5. What was Pakistan’s response to the Pahalgam incident?
PM Shehbaz condemned the April 22 tragedy where 26 civilians died in IIOJK. He criticized India for blaming Pakistan without evidence and said Pakistan proposed a neutral international investigation, which was rejected by India.
Q6. What military developments did he mention?
He claimed Pakistan’s armed forces:
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Downed six Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales
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Inflicted significant damage on Indian military facilities
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Received a ceasefire request from India, which was accepted to prevent escalation
