Shehbaz Sharif Asserts Pakistan's Right To Defend Itself; Warns India Against Resuming Hostilities

Prime Minister Sharif affirmed Pakistan's peaceful stance but its right to defend itself, recalling the effective response to India.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Source : X

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Friday that Pakistan is a peaceful nation, but it reserves the right to give a befitting response in its defence, as the country observed 'Youm-e-Tashakur' (Day of Thanks) to pay homage to the military. Both India and Pakistan reach an understanding on May 10 to end the military confrontation after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.

“Pakistan is a peaceful country, but it reserves the right to give a befitting response in its defence,” he said, recalling the recent military confrontation with India.

Sharif said that the armed forces of Pakistan responded befittingly and effectively to India and wrote a golden chapter in the military history of the country. He also visited the residence of Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf, who was killed in attacks by India, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan reported. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Army Chief Asim Munir, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accompanied the prime minister.

Meanwhile, Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan also said that Pakistan would respond to any aggression from India.

“The recent announcement of a Pakistan-India ceasefire is a positive development. We urge India to faithfully adhere to its implementation,” Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said while addressing the weekly press briefing.

However, he also asked the international partners to ensure India follows its commitments to avoid any aggression.

"Should India resume hostilities, Pakistan will have no choice but to respond,” he warned.

Khan also claimed that India was still showing a tendency to distort facts.

“India’s rhetoric reflects a persistent tendency to distort facts, justify aggression and cast unwarranted aspersions on Pakistan's nuclear assets,” he said.

He called Pakistan as a responsible state and remains committed to the ceasefire and taking necessary steps towards de-escalation and regional stability.

(With inputs from PTI.)