Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Monday said Pakistan had witnessed a historic moment, as the country’s prestige and standing in the international community had risen to an unprecedented level through its successful diplomatic efforts for regional peace.
Speaking in the National Assembly, the minister said the honour earned by Pakistan was unmatched in the country’s 78-year history.
“There is no doubt that we are passing through a historic moment. The respect and recognition Pakistan has received globally are unprecedented and reflect the wisdom, patience and statesmanship demonstrated by our leadership,” he said.
Khawaja Asif credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and their teams for steering the delicate process with prudence and determination, adding that the peace initiative had reached its final stages and was expected to be formally concluded with the signing of an agreement on Friday, June 19.
He said the close coordination among the country’s leadership had played a key role in achieving the breakthrough, adding that if such cooperation had existed consistently over the past decades, Pakistan might have achieved many more milestones.
The minister said the leadership’s commitment over the last two-and-a-half years to strengthening Pakistan and improving the well-being of its people had now borne fruit in the form of a major diplomatic success.
Congratulating the people and leadership of Iran, he said the Iranian nation had demonstrated remarkable unity and resilience during a difficult and sensitive period.
“The unity shown by the Iranian people and leadership is exemplary. If the Muslim Ummah displays the same spirit of solidarity, the day is not far when justice will also prevail for the people of Palestine and other oppressed Muslim communities,” he remarked. Khawaja Asif said that during his long parliamentary career, he could not recall another occasion when Pakistan’s leadership and Parliament had received such international recognition.
He noted that Pakistan had achieved two major successes within a relatively short period – one on the defence front and the other on the diplomatic front. Referring to Pakistan’s recent military achievements against India, he said the armed forces had enhanced the nation’s pride and honour.
The defence minister urged the nation to express gratitude to Almighty Allah for these accomplishments and emphasised the need to carry the same spirit of unity into the fight against terrorism. He said terrorism remained a national challenge and required a collective response from all segments of society.
“Just as the nation stood united in confronting external threats and supporting peace efforts, we must also unite in the struggle against terrorism. This is not the battle of any one institution or government; it is the battle of all 250 million Pakistanis,” he said. Khawaja Asif also thanked the United States leadership for its role in promoting peace and stability in the region and acknowledged efforts aimed at addressing longstanding concerns and grievances.
He further called upon Gulf countries to seize the opportunity created by the emerging environment of peace and unity, urging the Muslim world to overcome differences and work collectively for the welfare of Muslims facing hardship in Palestine, Lebanon, Kashmir and other regions.
The minister prayed for peace, unity and prosperity across the Muslim world and expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to play a constructive role in promoting regional stability and cooperation.