ISLAMABAD, MAY 16: Pakistan has strongly rejected India’s recent propaganda campaign targeting the country’s nuclear assets. Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan called out New Delhi’s misleading claims, stating that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state that fully adheres to the ceasefire agreement with India.
In a detailed media briefing on Friday, the spokesperson highlighted that India has resorted to spreading misinformation at a time when the international community is actively working to restore peace in South Asia. “When global efforts for peace began to gain momentum, India started twisting facts to serve its own agenda,” he noted.
Khan emphasized that Pakistan’s desire for peace should never be mistaken for weakness. “We are a peace-loving nation, but any future aggression will be met with a befitting response by the Pakistani armed forces,” he warned, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to defend its sovereignty. Operation Bunyan-un-Marsus
He recalled the recent tension between Pakistan and India that led to a deterioration in regional peace, adding that Pakistan had informed all its friendly countries about Indian actions. The armed forces retaliated to maintain the integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan. In response to the hostilities by India, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan-un-Marsus, during which six Indian aircraft were shot down. “The motives behind our actions were clear — to defend Pakistan’s integrity under Article 51 of the UN Charter,” he added.
Khan confirmed that an Indian military officer captured a couple of weeks ago was returned as a goodwill gesture in the interest of peace. He also acknowledged the role of friendly countries, including the United States, in facilitating the ceasefire agreement, which is currently in place.
Ceasefire, de-escalation, diplomatic engagements
The spokesperson welcomed the ongoing ceasefire between Pakistan and India and revealed that both countries’ directors general of military operations (DGMOs) are actively working on a phased de-escalation mechanism. Pakistan hoped India would not violate the ceasefire agreement, he added.
“Peace in the region hinges on continued dialogue,” Khan said. “Pakistan believes in resolving all outstanding issues, including Kashmir, through talks.” He added that ceasefire efforts were also emphasized during DGMO meetings and thanked international actors who helped mediate during the recent standoff. “We again ask the international countries to stop India from any aggression,” the spokesperson remarked.
India accused of sponsoring terrorism
In a sharp rebuke, the Foreign Office accused India of sponsoring terrorism inside Pakistan, claiming that credible evidence exists to back these allegations. “India has long supported state terrorism and continues to destabilize the region through its covert operations,” Khan asserted.
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ending terrorism, reminding the world that Pakistan itself has been a victim of terrorism and does not shy away from discussions on the issue.
Strong ties with allies, support for China
Khan underscored Pakistan’s close, solid and brotherly ties with Britain, mentioning the ongoing visit of the British foreign secretary, with a formal statement expected at the end of the trip.
On the topic of regional geopolitics, the spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in light of recent developments in Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as part of its territory. Water treaty and international support
The spokesperson also referenced a recent statement by the World Bank president on the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it “clear and on record,” reaffirming Pakistan’s position on water-sharing rights.