Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a strong warning to India, stating that any misadventure regarding water resources will receive a “befitting response” similar to the events of February 2019. Addressing the passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, the premier emphasized that water is a matter of national survival and non-negotiable for Pakistan.
“Our armed forces are a symbol of unity, discipline, and national resolve,” PM Sharif said, praising the military’s professional excellence and global reputation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to global peace, noting the country’s ongoing responsibilities under the UN Charter.
Speaking on regional security, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan seeks peaceful and stable relations with Afghanistan and called on the Afghan government to prevent its soil from being used by extremist groups. He also referenced a recent visit to Kabul by the Deputy Prime Minister aimed at fostering diplomatic ties.
Turning to India, PM Sharif reiterated that Kashmir remains the jugular vein of Pakistan and is a UN-recognized disputed territory. “The people of Kashmir must be granted their right to self-determination,” he stated, adding that Pakistan has always condemned terrorism and suffered the most in the global fight against it, both in terms of lives and resources.
He condemned the baseless accusations made by India following the recent Pahalgam incident and expressed Pakistan’s willingness to cooperate in an impartial investigation. “Accusations without evidence are unacceptable,” he said, referring to the ongoing Indian narrative.
The Prime Minister strongly asserted, “Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty. If provoked, we will respond with full national strength — just as we did in 2019.” He added, “Peace is our preference, but it must not be mistaken for weakness. The unity of our 250 million citizens and the vigilance of our armed forces will ensure our national integrity remains intact.”
On Palestine, PM Sharif denounced Israeli atrocities in Gaza and urged global powers to intervene and end the ongoing human rights violations.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister highlighted positive signs of economic recovery, with a focus on increasing foreign investment and promoting sustainable growth in Pakistan.
