President and PM Discuss India Tensions, Reaffirm National Unity

Both leaders expressed grave concern over India’s

aggressive posture and provocative rhetoric, which

they said threatened regional peace and stability

Associated Press of Pakistan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called on President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday to discuss the prevailing security situation in light of escalating tensions with India following the Pahalgam attack.

During the meeting, both leaders expressed grave concern over India’s aggressive posture and provocative rhetoric, which they said threatened regional peace and stability. They emphasized that Pakistan would never compromise on its sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging a strong response to any act of aggression.

The leadership reiterated that the entire Pakistani nation stood firmly behind its armed forces, who are fully prepared to defend the country against any external threat. They also reviewed Pakistan’s diplomatic and strategic response options amid India’s recent hostile statements.

The meeting condemned the Indian leadership’s baseless accusations regarding the Pahalgam incident, made without any investigation or evidence. Both sides highlighted that Pakistan has been a frontline victim of terrorism, enduring massive human and economic losses over the past two decades.

They urged the international community to take serious notice of India’s alleged involvement in supporting terrorism within Pakistan through funding, training, and deploying militants.

President Zardari appreciated the government’s measured and responsible handling of the situation, stating that Pakistan would take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and core national interests.

The two leaders also underscored the importance of implementing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions to grant the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination — a step they believe would bring long-term peace and stability to South Asia.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also inquired after President Zardari’s health following his recovery from COVID-19.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with Law Minister Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, also attended the meeting.