PM Shehbaz Sharif Praises PAF for Defending Pakistan’s Airspace

Dialogue must focus on the Kashmir dispute and the

right to self-determination for the Kashmiri people

as per UN Security Council resolutions. PM clarifies

Associated Press of Pakistan

Kamra: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to hold peace talks with India—but made it clear that dialogue must focus on the Kashmir dispute and the right to self-determination for the Kashmiri people as per UN Security Council resolutions.

Speaking to Pakistan Air Force (PAF) personnel during a special visit to the Kamra Air Base, the premier stated that peace in South Asia was possible only through a resolution of the longstanding Kashmir issue.

Pakistan Seeks Transparent Probe Into Pahalgam Incident

He said Pakistan was wrongly blamed for the Pahalgam incident and demanded a transparent investigation. However, India responded with aggression rather than launching a fair probe.

PAF’s Historic Defence Victory

The Prime Minister visited the Kamra base to commend the PAF for its historic performance during one of the longest aerial engagements of the 21st century, which resulted in the downing of six Indian jets, including a Rafale fighter.

“You have defended our skies and elevated Pakistan’s prestige globally,” he told the PAF personnel. He lauded the “Shaheens” for their swift and decisive action, which shattered India’s illusion of aerial dominance.

Key Leaders Accompany PM

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, and other top civil and military leaders.

Victory Changed Global Perception

Shehbaz Sharif said that during the May 6–10 conflict, the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces surprised the world. “This was a decisive victory that shifted the regional power dynamic,” he said. “The enemy was equipped with billions of dollars’ worth of military hardware, yet our homegrown technology and skill prevailed.”

He emphasized that Pakistan’s message to its adversaries was loud and clear: any hostile move would be met with a resolute and overwhelming response.

PAF Downed Sixth Indian Jet Near Srinagar

The Prime Minister confirmed the PAF downed a sixth Indian aircraft, a Mirage-2000, near Pampore, east of Srinagar, during the night of May 6–7. He praised the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu for modernizing the force and integrating advanced technology to boost operational readiness.

Remembering Legends of the PAF

Referencing historic figures like M.M. Alam, Cecil Chaudhry, and Sarfraz Rafiqui, the PM said the downing of the Indian Rafale fighter jet by a JF-17 Thunder brought back memories of their legendary acts of bravery.

He hailed the Armed Forces’ “restraint, strategic foresight, and precision” during the conflict, which not only neutralized the threat but also reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty.

Pakistan Rejects War, Demands Justice

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan desires peace but would not tolerate injustice or aggression. He condemned the Indian attacks targeting civilians and underscored that Pakistan’s military strikes were precise and only targeted enemy installations.

India’s Role in Regional Destabilization

The Prime Minister accused India of involvement in acts of terrorism in Pakistan, including the train hijacking in Balochistan and the Samjhauta Express blast. He also mentioned India’s role in the creation of Mukti Bahini during the 1971 war.

He said Pakistan had suffered greatly during the war on terror and that India had a hand in destabilizing the country.

Pakistan’s Armed Forces Remain United and Vigilant

Highlighting inter-service coordination, the Prime Minister praised the Pakistan Navy’s readiness and historical response during conflicts like the 1965 war. He also paid tribute to the martyrs and assured their families of continued government support.

“Pakistan’s Armed Forces remain fully prepared and committed to defending every inch of our land,” Shehbaz Sharif asserted.

During the visit, the Prime Minister received a detailed briefing on the operational capabilities of the PAF and met with pilots, engineers, and technical personnel to express the nation’s gratitude for their dedication to national defence.