After truce, PM looks to settling IWT, Kashmir disputes
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif interacts with President Asif Ali Zardari during a meeting at the Presidency. PHOTO: INP
Listen to article
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said Pakistan, as a responsible state, responded positively to the ceasefire in view of regional peace and well-being of millions of people living in this region.
In a televised address to nation, the premier expressed the hope that all the outstanding issues including the water distribution, Jammu and Kashmir dispute and all other unresolved issues would now be settled by holding negotiations and adopting a peaceful path.
The prime minister wholeheartedly congratulated the nation for demonstrating to the world that their self-respect and dignity were more precious than life itself, adding, "If anyone challenges their sovereignty, they stand like an iron wall and overpower their enemies".
"What the enemy did was a cowardly and shameful act — naked aggression," the prime minister said, noting that the brave and professional armed forces delivered a highly effective response that would be remembered as a defining chapter in modern warfare.
He said under the pretext of the Pahalgam incident, India attempted to drag Pakistan into war, despite Pakistan's immediate offer to cooperate in an impartial and transparent international investigation.
In the face of a flurry of false allegations, Pakistan showed restraint and patience, the prime minister said, adding that India attempted to infiltrate Pakistani territory with drones and missile attacks targeting innocent civilians and mosques, while also testing Pakistan's patience with botched strikes on military installations and water resources.
The prime minister said that following repeated acts of aggression, Pakistan chose to respond in kinda language the enemy understood well.
He said Pakistan made it clear that the negotiations meant for the table would now take place on the battlefield.
He praised the armed forces of Pakistan, saying their soldiers were unfamiliar with the concept of "defeat".
He said that within a few hours, Pakistan's forces silenced the enemy's guns, and the world would remember how they turned enemy air bases, installations and stockpiles into ashes. "Even the Rafale failed in the encounter."
The prime minister said their fight was against an outdated mindset rooted in hatred, aggression, religious bigotry, and anti-humanity. "This is a victory for truth and our principles," he said, adding that Pakistan responded to the enemy in a manner what deemed fit by a respected nation.
The 240 million people of the country expressed their unwavering support and affection for the valiant armed forces, standing firmly beside them throughout the conflict.
He also thanked the nation for their prayers for the armed forces' success, saying that as a result, Almighty had granted them a tremendous victory.
On this historic victory, he paid tribute to Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and every officer and personnel of the armed forces.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to Gen Asim Munir, on behalf of himself and the entire nation, for his wise and bold leadership that led to victory. He also praised the air chief and his eagles for making the nation proud.
The prime minister thanked US President Donald Trump for his sincere role in facilitating the ceasefire.
He also expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Türkiye, Qatar, the United Kingdom, UN Secretary-General, and other stakeholders for their constructive role in facilitating the ceasefire.
The prime minister especially mentioned Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Mohamed bin Zayed, Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad and President Tayyip Erdogan who stood with Pakistan like brothers.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people for their unprecedented and historic support.
He also remembered Irtaza Abbas Shaheed who embraced martrydom during the Indian aggression and expressed sympathies with the bereaved families who lost their members.
He thanked all allied and opposition parties, as well as the entire political leadership and parliament, for their unprecedented unity and solidarity. He also acknowledged his leader, Nawaz Sharif, for his wise leadership and experience, and President Asif Zardari for his valuable consultations.
The prime minister commended mediapersons and social media users for effectively countering Indian fake news through responsible reporting and professional integrity, expressing hope that this precedent would serve as a guiding example moving forward.
Expressing his firm belief, he stated that after overcoming this crisis, all governments and institutions would focus their energies toward Pakistan's progress and prosperity, vowing not to rest until the country secures its rightful place among the comity of nations.
Separately, the prime minister reached out to the country's political leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, to brief them on Pakistan's effective response to India through Operation "Bunyan-al-Marsous".
He called on the president at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, were also present at the meeting, according to a statement from the President's Office.
President Zardari lauded the exceptional professionalism and bravery of the country's armed forces for giving a befitting response to Indian unprovoked aggression and missile attacks.
The president reaffirmed that Pakistan, as a responsible and peace-loving nation, had demonstrated considerable restraint in the face of Indian provocations. He regretted that continued Indian belligerence had left Pakistan with no option but to respond decisively in defence of its sovereignty and to protect its citizens.
The president emphasised that the entire Pakistani nation stands united and resolutely supports its armed forces in the face of Indian aggression. He reiterated Pakistan's unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs.
On the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, President Zardari reaffirmed his faith in the country's armed forces, lauding their befitting response to Indian aggression and defending the nation's sovereignty.
"I have always had faith in the armed forces of Pakistanthe army, navy, and air force," he said, according to a statement from the President's Secretariat.
"Their response to the aggressor India has been befitting, and we have severely dented their so-called military might."
President Zardari stated that the bravery and resolve demonstrated by Pakistan's armed forces is a testament to the strength derived from the Two Nation Theory and the country's unshakeable faith in Almighty. "As an Islamic state, our belief gave us the courage and the strength to stand against a country five times our size," he noted.
The president extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshall Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and all fighting arms of the military, whose restless efforts and bravery led to this victory. "The nation must jubilate, and also pray for those who embraced shahadat," he said.
Reiterating Pakistan's principled stance, the president emphasized that enduring peace in South Asia hinged upon the just and final resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, besides resolving other outstanding issues with India, particularly the Indus Waters Treaty.
President Zardari also expressed gratitude to all friendly countries, including the USA, Turkey, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and especially China who stood with Pakistan in an hour of turbulence.
Reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to peace, the president stated, "Pakistan seeks peace, not provocation. But we will never compromise on our sovereignty."
Meanwhile, the prime minister held a telephonic conversation with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, expressing gratitude for his support of Pakistan's retaliatory action, Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos, in response to the Indian aggression.
He thanked Bilawal for standing firmly with the government and the nation during this critical time, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office.
"Your support for the country's principled and powerful response to India's hostile actions is deeply appreciated," the prime minister said.
In turn, the PPP chairman praised the prime minister for his exemplary leadership during a period of heightened tensions. He also commended the professionalism and determination of the Pakistan Armed Forces in delivering a strong response to Indian provocations.
"We salute the armed forces for their courage and professional excellence in responding to Indian aggression," Bilawal said. "The entire nation stands united with our military in the defence of Pakistan's sovereignty."
During the conversation, both leaders emphasized the importance of political unity and national resolve in the face of external threats.
The premier also held telephonic conversations with Awami National Party (ANP) chief Aimal Wali Khan and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) leader Abdul Aleem Khan to discuss the regional situation.
The prime minister briefed both the leaders on the recent developments and took them into confidence regarding Pakistan's stance and actions in response to rising tensions with India, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said.
Aimal and Aleem expressed gratitude for being consulted and extended full support to the government's retaliatory measures under Operation Bunyan-al-Marsous.
The political leaders praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership during the recent crisis, calling it "exemplary" in the face of rising regional tensions.
They also praised the professional excellence and unwavering resolve of the Pakistan Armed Forces, commending the military's swift and decisive response to external threats.
"The entire nation stands united with our brave armed forces in defending our beloved homeland," both leaders affirmed during their discussions with the prime minister.
The premier also held telephonic conversations with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, MQM Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, BAP leader Khalid Hussain Magsi and PML-Q's Chaudhry Salik Hussain about the current security situation and Pakistan's measured yet firm response to Indian aggression, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said.
"Alhamdulillah, the armed forces of Pakistan have today given a powerful and well-coordinated response to India's unprovoked aggression," the premier said. "India launched missile and drone attacks on Pakistan, targeting Noor Khan Airbase and other locations early this morning, killing innocent civilians."
Despite repeated provocations, he stated, Pakistan had exercised restraint. He recalled how, after the Pahalgam incident, Pakistan had demanded an impartial investigationan offer India rejected. However, Saturday's assaults left Pakistan with no choice but to respond decisively.
The prime minister confirmed that Pakistan's retaliatory action under Operation Bunyan-al-Marsous specifically targeted Indian military installations involved in the attacks. "Today, we have delivered a resounding reply and avenged the blood of the innocent," he said. "We are proud of our armed forces."
The premier congratulated the nation and praised the armed forces for their valor and professionalism.
The country's top political leaders reiterated their support, applauding the military's composure and tactical expertise. They also pledged full solidarity with the government and armed forces during this critical juncture.
"The professionalism of our armed forces in defending the homeland deserves the highest praise," said the joint political leadership, assuring the prime minister of their united support.
In return, the prime minister expressed gratitude for their clear and unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of national unity in the face of external threats.
With input from APP
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Recorder
4 hours ago
- Business Recorder
NSC to meet today
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, has convened an important meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Monday (today) at 12 pm at the Prime Minister's House. According to reports, the NSC meeting will be attended by both civil and military leadership including Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who is expected to brief participants on his recent visit to the United States. Senior cabinet members including the Defence Minister, Interior Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Finance Minister will also be in attendance. In meeting with COAS Munir, Trump lauds Pakistan's ongoing efforts for regional peace, stability The session will include consultations on the ongoing Iran-Israel-US tensions, with major decisions likely regarding Pakistan's support for Iran and other key matters. The internal security and border situation of the country will also be reviewed in detail during the meeting, sources said. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
4 hours ago
- Business Recorder
‘Pakistan stands with Iran': PM
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concerns that the US strikes to Iran had targeted facilities that were under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). These attacks constituted a serious violation of international law and the IAEA Statute. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian. The Prime Minister conveyed Pakistan's condemnation of the US attacks, which followed Israel's unprovoked and unjustified aggression over the past eight days. He reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the brotherly people and government of Iran, while expressing heartfelt condolences on the loss of precious lives and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. Dar tells Senate: Pakistan, other OIC member states slam Israeli aggression against Iran While noting Iran's right to self-defence, as enshrined under Article 51 of the UN Charter, the Prime Minister stressed upon the need to immediately return to dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable path forward. He also called for urgent collective efforts to de-escalate the situation. The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's readiness to play a constructive role in this context. President Pezeshkian conveyed his deep appreciation for Pakistan's support to Iran. He thanked the Prime Minister, the government and people of Pakistan, including the military leadership, for standing in solidarity with the people and Government of Iran. The two leaders emphasised on the need and urgency of forging unity among the Ummah at this critical juncture. The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact. In a statement Foreign Office issued on Sunday states Pakistan condemns the US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities which follow the series of attacks by Israel. We are gravely concerned at the possible further escalation of tensions in the region. 'We reiterate that these attacks violate all norms of international law and that Iran has the legitimate right to defend itself under the UN Charter,' it states. The unprecedented escalation of tension and violence, owing to ongoing aggression against Iran is deeply disturbing. Any further escalation of tensions will have severely damaging implications for the region and beyond. 'We emphasise the imperative need to respect civilian lives and properties and immediately bring the conflict to end. All parties must adhere to international law, particularly International Humanitarian Law. Recourse to dialogue, diplomacy, in line with the principles and purposes of the UN Charter remain the only viable pathway to resolve the crises in the region.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
4 hours ago
- Business Recorder
‘Apna Meter Apni Reading' App unveiled
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif has approved phasing out the role of meter readers in power Distribution Companies (Discos) across the country except KE's service area with initiation of new mechanism 'Apna meter Apni Reading' App, to be launched soon, well informed sources told Business Recorder. Currently, Meter Readers take a snap of consumers' electricity meters which are sent to Discos to Power Information Technology Company (PITC), on the basis of which bills are generated, however, there are numerous complaints of this mechanism as consumers receive inflated bills. In this regard, Prime Minister presided over a meeting on June 17, 2025 wherein issues related to the launching of new scheme and eliminating the menace of overbilling and resolving complains through an automated system came under discussion. Policy for installing more than one electricity meter unchanged, says Power Division amid social media reports According to sources, Prime Minister directed the Power Division to install a Power Smart Mobile App with instructions for use, in both National and four regional languages (Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtu and Balochi) for easy use / application and understanding of common people. Power Division has been directed to conduct a soft launch of Power Smart Mobile App immediately in order to fix/ streamline any teething issues before the nationwide launch / inauguration by the Prime Minister. The sources said, Prime Minister has given one month to the Power Division to chalk a plan for phasing out the Meter Readers from the power metering system. Power Division in coordination with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is tasked to prepare a comprehensive and engaging media campaign clearly spelling out the objectives of this initiative for the review/ approval of Prime Minister this week. Prime Minister has also directed Power Division that savings on account of reduced administrative charges for meter reading shall be passed on to the consumers . To support the initiative, the Power Information Technology Company has also instructed all Discos to prepare comprehensive media campaigns to inform consumers about the benefits of self-reading. This move aims to eliminate the role of meter readers—many of whom have been implicated in over billing and malpractice. The government has allocated Rs. 316 million for the national media campaign. A detailed Terms of Reference (ToR) has been formulated, outlining the scope, objectives, and methodology for the campaign. Additionally, a clear responsibility matrix has been developed to define the roles and responsibilities of PITC and MEPCO—covering aspects such as media planning, vendor engagement, field activation, monitoring, and reporting. Discos have sought guidance from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PITC with respect to their due contribution in media campaign. Clarification have also been sought on whether this amount should be deducted from the total payment and borne by individual Discos or whether PITC will facilitate the provision of promotional materials (e.g., boards, standees, banners). Discos have also urged PITC to explore the possibility of securing complimentary airtime for public service announcements through electronic media. Discos highlight the importance of PITC's support in providing the necessary documentation to ensure the success of this public awareness initiative. Furthermore, Discos have stressed the need for thorough testing and validation of applications such as the Power Smart App, Apna Meter Apni Reading, CCMS+, and the Lineman Mobile Solution prior to launch. This is vital to prevent technical issues, ensure a smooth user experience, and build consumer trust. The sources told this correspondent that PITC will ensure high performance, reliability, and a seamless user experience across all platforms during the campaign rollout. All relevant details are to be shared with full transparency to meet the codal formalities required for such government initiatives. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
