Khawaja Asif says Pakistan’s global standing has strengthened

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has said that Pakistan’s international stature has risen under the leadership of the field marshal and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the country’s diplomatic efforts in promoting regional peace and stability.

Speaking to media representatives outside Parliament House in Islamabad, the defence minister stated that relations between Pakistan and Iran were moving towards new heights. He said Pakistan had played a significant role in reducing tensions in the region and had contributed positively to diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and stability.

Khawaja Asif said that India was unhappy with Pakistan’s effective diplomatic engagement on regional and international issues. He maintained that Pakistan remained committed to peace and dialogue but would respond firmly to any aggression. According to him, the country had consistently preferred negotiations and peaceful solutions over conflict.

The minister further stated that Pakistan’s role was being appreciated across the Muslim world. He said efforts made by Islamabad to support peace and stability in the Gulf region had received recognition from friendly countries and regional partners.

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Discussing relations with Afghanistan, Khawaja Asif said Pakistan desired peace along its western borders and wanted cordial and brotherly ties with the neighbouring country. He added that Pakistan had hosted Afghan refugees for decades, providing shelter, educational opportunities and employment, and hoped that Afghan leadership would acknowledge these longstanding contributions.

The defence minister also stressed that Pakistan’s leadership had played a constructive and positive role on the global stage. He said the country remained committed to promoting peace, stability and economic development throughout the region.

Khawaja Asif concluded that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives and engagement with regional stakeholders were helping strengthen the country’s image internationally. He added that the international community was recognising Pakistan’s efforts to encourage dialogue, cooperation and peaceful conflict resolution, while supporting initiatives aimed at ensuring long-term regional stability and prosperity.