Pakistan Warns India of Strong Response to Defence Minister’s Remarks

Pakistan on Friday strongly rejected Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s remarks, calling them a reflection of New Delhi’s “hegemonic mindset” that threatens regional peace and stability.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan said Pakistan was ready to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He warned that any aggression against Pakistan would receive a strong response.

Khan said the Indian defence minister’s remarks suggested a threat of aggression against Pakistan and urged New Delhi to stop making dangerous statements.

“Such reckless statements reflect India’s hegemonistic mindset and the risk it poses to regional peace and stability in South Asia,” the spokesperson said.

His remarks came after Rajnath Singh said any “future terrorist attack originating from Pakistan” would lead to a stronger response from India.

Pakistan and India went to war in May last year after India launched an attack on Pakistan following the killing of 26 tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). India alleged that Pakistanis were involved in the attack, a claim Islamabad denied. Pakistan also called for a neutral investigation.

India later carried out missile strikes inside Pakistan, killing several civilians and security personnel. Pakistan responded by shooting down eight Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, according to the report.

The conflict between the two nuclear-armed countries ended with a ceasefire on May 10, brokered by the United States.

The FO spokesperson reminded India of the consequences of its military action last year and said Pakistan had demonstrated its ability and determination to defend itself.

“Let there be no ambiguity, Pakistan remains fully prepared to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any ill-advised aggression,” he said.

Khan added that Pakistan’s commitment to peace and restraint should not be seen as weakness. He urged India to learn from last year’s conflict and act responsibly to maintain lasting peace in the region.

FO Digitises Apostille Services

The Foreign Office is also digitising and automating its apostille services to improve efficiency, transparency and access for applicants, Khan said.

He said e-attestation had been launched through the ministry’s online portal, while work on e-apostille services was underway. Eligible applicants may also be exempted from appearing in person, subject to required safeguards. The move is expected to make the process easier for overseas Pakistanis.

Khan called the initiative a “massive leap forward” and said Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had personally led the process.

He added that an inquiry into alleged irregularities in attestation services was underway, and its findings would be announced after completion.