Islamabad : President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have firmly stated that Pakistan will not yield on matters related to national defence, warning that any hostile act will be answered with full force.
In their separate remarks, both leaders underscored that safeguarding the country’s peace, sovereignty, and territorial boundaries remains a top priority. They stressed that while Pakistan seeks stability and constructive regional ties, it will not allow any threat to compromise its security.
President Zardari commended the armed forces for what he described as a prompt and effective response to unprovoked actions by the Afghan Taliban. He cautioned that mistaking Pakistan’s preference for peace as a sign of weakness would be a serious misjudgment, adding that any such perception would be countered decisively.
The president asserted that authorities are fully aware of the elements responsible for orchestrating and supporting acts of violence. He warned that if aggression continues, those involved would not remain beyond Pakistan’s capacity to act. Highlighting national unity, he said citizens and the armed forces are united in their determination to defend the country’s sovereignty.
Referring to the suicide blast at a mosque in Islamabad on February 8, President Zardari said he had conveyed a clear warning to Taliban authorities immediately after the attack and reiterated his message later in the month. He alleged that in recent years, the Taliban administration had allowed its linked Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants to operate against Pakistan despite diplomatic efforts and past cooperation from Islamabad. According to him, sustained engagement with the group, including coordination with friendly nations, did not produce meaningful progress.
He further remarked that by crossing the international boundary and challenging Pakistan’s territorial integrity, the Taliban had intensified tensions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments, stating that Pakistan’s defence is not open to negotiation. He affirmed that any act of hostility would trigger a strong and immediate response. The premier reiterated that Pakistan has consistently pursued peace in the region but would not tolerate attempts to undermine its sovereignty.
He described the Pakistan Armed Forces as well-trained, professionally capable, and strategically prepared to confront threats originating both internally and from across the border. Expressing confidence in Chief of Army Staff Syed Asim Munir, he said the military leadership remains committed and fully prepared to counter hostile intentions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz concluded by stating that the entire nation stands united with its armed forces and remains resolute in protecting Pakistan’s independence, security, and territorial integrity under all circumstances.
