Pakistan Committed to Peace, But Ready to Defend Sovereignty

Pakistan is a firm believer in resolving conflicts through peaceful means; however, it will resolutely defend its sovereignty, according to Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan on Friday.

During his weekly media briefing in Islamabad, the spokesperson stated that India’s actions had escalated tensions, leading the region toward conflict.

He underscored that Pakistan responded to Indian aggression, demonstrating its commitment to upholding the nation’s honor and dignity without compromise.

Shafqat noted that in response to Indian acts of aggression, Pakistan initiated ‘Operation Swift Retort’. He added that Pakistani forces successfully downed six Indian aircraft during this operation.

The spokesperson expressed gratitude to the various nations that facilitated the ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, acknowledging that the cessation of hostilities was achieved through their combined diplomatic efforts.

He cautioned that any future acts of aggression against Pakistan would encounter a forceful and decisive response.

Referring to the deaths of 26 individuals in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in April, New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for orchestrating the militant attack, a claim that Pakistan has refuted.

Based on these assertions, India initiated hostilities against Pakistan earlier this month, which represented the most intense fighting between the two nations in recent decades, before a ceasefire was implemented last week.

Pakistan is prepared to engage in discussions regarding the issue of terrorism, the Foreign Office spokesperson affirmed during the briefing.

Emphasizing Pakistan’s experience as a victim of terrorism, the spokesperson highlighted the nation’s understanding of the suffering it inflicts. He asserted, however, that India has been actively involved in fomenting and supporting terrorist activities within Pakistan.

The Foreign Office further stated that India has been implicated in carrying out assassination plots, not only within Pakistan but also in other countries.

The spokesperson asserted that Pakistan will consistently and clearly articulate its position whenever the subject of terrorism is addressed.

“We have substantial evidence concerning India’s involvement,” he stated.

Shafqat expressed Pakistan’s desire for a lasting resolution to the issue of terrorism, stating that Pakistan is open to discussing terrorism in international forums.

In conclusion, the FO reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to resolving issues through peaceful dialogue and negotiation.