Pakistan open to participating in neutral, transparent Pahalgam investigation: PM

KAKUL: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while speaking at a passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy, said Pakistan clearly condemns terrorism in all forms and offered to take part in a “neutral, transparent, and credible investigation” into the recent Pahalgam incident.

He strongly restated Pakistan’s firm stand against terrorism and its determination to protect national interests, especially water rights. His remarks come at a time of increasing tensions with India.

He criticized India’s approach, saying that it continues to blame Pakistan without solid proof. “This blame game must stop,” he added.

On water issues, PM Shehbaz warned that any move to block or reduce Pakistan’s share of water under the Indus Waters Treaty would face a strong response. “No one should be under any false impression,” he said, calling water a matter of survival for the country’s 240 million people.

Speaking about Pakistan’s defense, he reminded that Pakistan had shown strong and careful action during India’s 2019 attack, and said the country’s armed forces are always ready to protect its borders. “The entire nation stands with our military. We will defend every inch of Pakistan,” he declared.

He repeated that Pakistan wants peace, but will never allow its dignity or security to be compromised. “Peace is our choice, but not a weakness,” he said.

On the Kashmir issue, the Prime Minister called it the “jugular vein” of Pakistan and promised continued support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He also criticized India’s mistreatment of its minorities, especially Muslims and Sikhs, and urged it to respect international human rights.

PM Shehbaz also spoke about relations with Afghanistan. He said Pakistan wishes to live in peace with its neighbor, but terrorism from Afghan soil must stop. He said a clear message was sent to the Afghan government during a recent visit by Pakistan’s Deputy PM, that good relations cannot exist if attacks on Pakistan continue.

He pointed out that Pakistan has suffered greatly due to terrorism, with over 90,000 lives lost and over $600 billion in economic damage. “No country has paid a higher price than Pakistan in the fight against terrorism,” he said.

On the economy, the Prime Minister said Pakistan is starting to recover after difficult times. Foreign investment is now coming into key sectors such as mining, IT, agriculture, and defense production. Diplomatically, he said Pakistan is renewing old friendships and building new ties around the world.

He said Pakistan will continue to work for peace as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2025–26) and will keep raising its voice for the people of Palestine and their right to an independent state.

PM Shehbaz congratulated the cadets and praised the Pakistan Army for its discipline, bravery, and loyalty. He also appreciated the cadets from friendly countries and encouraged them to follow the vision of Quaid-e-Azam based on faith, unity, and discipline.

The ceremony ended with awards being given to top-performing cadets. The event was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, military officials, foreign diplomats, and the cadets’ families.

Read More: PMA Kakul Passing Out Parade: PM Emphasizes National Unity, Global Peace