WEBDESK: Addressing a passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul on April 26th, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed Pakistan’s openness to a neutral and transparent investigation into the recent Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals in Indian-administered Kashmir. This statement comes as Pak-India relations face heightened tensions following the incident.
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam saw 26 people, mostly tourists, killed in what is being described as the deadliest armed attack in the disputed Himalayan region since the year 2000. Responsibility for the attack was allegedly claimed by the hitherto unknown The Resistance Front (TRF).
Speaking at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, PM Shehbaz emphasized the need to move beyond the “perpetual blame game” and highlighted Pakistan’s willingness to participate in any credible international inquiry. He criticized India for making baseless allegations without verifiable evidence, stating that such actions exacerbate Pak-India relations.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism, noting the country’s significant sacrifices, including over 90,000 casualties and economic losses exceeding $600 billion. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, describing Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of Pakistan.
Addressing a passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, PM Shehbaz said: “The recent tragedy in Pahalgam is yet another example of this perpetual blame game, which must come to a grinding halt.Continuing with its role as a responsible country, Pakistan is open to participating in any neutral, transparent and credible investigation.”
The Prime Minister criticised India for continuing with a “pattern of exploitation, levelling baseless allegations and false accusations without credible investigation or verifiable evidence”.
“I also need to underscore the importance of Kashmir, as the Founder of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah rightly said, Kashmir is the jugular vein of Pakistan. Unfortunately, this globally recognised dispute remains unresolved despite multiple UN resolutions.
“Let there be no doubt, Pakistan shall continue to support the right of self-determination of the Kashmiri people till they achieve their rights through their great struggle and sacrifices.”
In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and downgraded diplomatic ties, actions that have further strained Pak-India relations. Pakistan responded by putting the Simla Agreement in abeyance and closing its airspace to Indian flights.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, calling for an international investigation and warning that any aggressive action by India could lead to an “all-out war,” a scenario that would be disastrous for the region.
As Pak-India relations continue to deteriorate, both nations face increasing international pressure to de-escalate tensions and engage in constructive dialogue. The call for a neutral investigation into the Pahalgam attack is seen as a step towards transparency and accountability, potentially paving the way for improved relations between the two countries.
