Pakistan (Commonwealth Union)_ According to media sources, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, remains hopeful for a potential improvement in bilateral relations with India following the conclusion of India’s Lok Sabha elections. Amidst India’s persistent accusations of Pakistan’s involvement in cross-border terrorism, Asif expressed optimism for a positive shift in relations between the two nations. Furthermore, tensions between Pakistan and India have escalated over the years, primarily due to Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism and its occupation of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Recently, India’s abstention from endorsing a resolution combating Islamophobia proposed by Pakistan at the UNGA further strained relations between the two countries.
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Addressing the reporters outside the Parliament House in Islamabad, Asif acknowledged the complex history underlying Pakistan-India relations. He suggested that the completion of India’s upcoming election phase could pave the way for improved ties between the neighboring nations. With Pakistan sharing borders with China, India, Afghanistan, and Iran, recent cross-border incidents with Iran and heightened tensions with Afghanistan have added strain to regional dynamics. Despite these challenges, Asif remains hopeful for positive developments in bilateral relations with India after the election.
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Addressing Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan, Asif revealed his personal visit to the Taliban-ruled country, urging effective measures to combat terrorism. However, he expressed dissatisfaction over Kabul’s proposed solutions to address terrorism concerns. Asif emphasized Pakistan’s long standing support for Afghanistan, including sacrifices made and wars fought together. He advocated for stricter border controls, aligning with international norms, to prevent unauthorized cross-border movement, which he believes facilitates terrorist infiltration. Anticipating concrete measures against terrorism in the near future, Asif hinted at forthcoming actions by the federal government. Additionally, ongoing investigations into the recent attack on Chinese nationals in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) are underway, with joint efforts between Pakistan and China to uncover the truth behind the terrorist incident.
Regarding economic matters, Asif highlighted Pakistan’s compliance with IMF targets but noted that relief for the nation may take time. He cited pending tax recovery cases and losses from electricity and gas theft as ongoing challenges. However, he expressed optimism about providing relief to the public within the next six months through effective measures. Responding to queries about the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project, Asif urged the United States to offer alternative energy solutions considering Pakistan’s economic constraints. He emphasized Pakistan’s right to seek affordable gas purchases from neighboring countries, given its economic circumstances.
Over the past years, India and Pakistan have developed significant military capabilities and maintained large defense forces. India, with its larger economy, has invested heavily in defense modernization, including indigenous development and procurement of advanced weaponry. Pakistan, despite its smaller economy, has focused on maintaining a credible defense system against perceived threats, including developing nuclear weapons and fostering strategic alliances, particularly with China. While there have been occasional attempts at dialogue and confidence-building measures, such as agreements on border management and military hotlines to prevent inadvertent escalation, progress has been limited due to deep-rooted distrust and unresolved disputes.
