PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the nation stands united with Pakistan’s armed forces to protect every inch of its territory, especially amid rising tensions with India.
While speaking at the passing out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, Shehbaz reaffirmed that the armed forces are fully equipped and ready to safeguard the country’s sovereignty against any threats.
“While we prefer peace, it should never be mistaken for weakness,” he stated. “We will always uphold the dignity and security of our nation.”
In light of India’s recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam attack, Shehbaz cautioned that any attempt to obstruct or divert Pakistan’s water share would trigger a strong response. He referred to water as Pakistan’s lifeline and a crucial national interest.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that Pakistan is willing to engage in a “neutral, transparent, and credible” investigation into the Pahalgam attack, amidst the escalating tensions with India.
“The recent tragedy in Pahalgam is just another instance of this ongoing issue,” he remarked. “As a responsible nation, Pakistan is open to any neutral, transparent, and credible investigation.”
He took a strong stance against India, calling their “baseless allegations” towards Pakistan unfounded and lacking any solid evidence. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to supporting the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, emphasizing that Kashmir is the “jugular vein” of Pakistan.
Shehbaz also pointed out the sacrifices Pakistan has made in the global battle against terrorism, highlighting the staggering loss of over 90,000 lives and an economic toll of $600 billion.
“I must stress the significance of Kashmir, as our nation’s founder, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, aptly stated, Kashmir is indeed the jugular vein of Pakistan. Sadly, this internationally recognized dispute remains unresolved, despite numerous UN resolutions. Let it be clear, Pakistan will steadfastly support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination until they achieve their rightful goals through their immense struggle and sacrifices.”
His comments came in the wake of Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s call for an international investigation into the Pahalgam attack, as reported by the New York Times. In an interview, Asif expressed that Pakistan was “ready to cooperate” with any inquiry conducted by international inspectors.
Asif dismissed India’s allegations linking Pakistan to the attack, labeling the militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba as “defunct” and claiming there’s no operational presence in Pakistan. He cautioned that India’s actions seemed aimed at punishing Pakistan “without any evidence.”
The defence minister even suggested that the attack could be a “false flag” operation orchestrated by India to heighten tensions and undermine the Indus Waters Treaty, which New Delhi has now suspended unilaterally.
In a separate chat with Sky News, Asif warned that any large-scale attack from India would lead to an “all-out war,” alerting the international community to the serious risks involved.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has called on both India and Pakistan to show “maximum restraint” in light of the escalating situation.
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Q1.What did Shehbaz Sharif emphasize during the passing out parade?
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that the nation stands firmly united with Pakistan’s armed forces, ready to defend every inch of its territory, especially amid rising tensions with India.
Q2.How did the Pakistani leader respond to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty?
The Prime Minister warned that any attempt to obstruct or divert Pakistan’s share of water would provoke a strong national response, emphasizing that water is Pakistan’s lifeline.
Q3.Is Pakistan willing to investigate the Pahalgam attack?
Yes, Pakistan has expressed its willingness to participate in a “neutral, transparent, and credible” investigation into the Pahalgam attack to clarify the situation and address international concerns.
Q4.What stance did the Prime Minister take on Kashmir?
The Pakistani head of government reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue supporting the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, calling Kashmir the “jugular vein” of Pakistan.
Q5.How did Defence Minister Khawaja Asif react to India’s allegations?
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif dismissed the accusations linking Pakistan to the Pahalgam attack, suggesting it could be a “false flag” operation and warning that any aggression from India could lead to an all-out war.
Q6.What message did the Pakistani head of state deliver regarding Pakistan’s stance on terrorism?
The Pakistani head of state highlighted the country’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism, citing over 90,000 lives lost and an economic cost of $600 billion, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to peace and security.
