Zardari Warns India, Urges Peace Talks While Pledging Full Defense of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday delivered a powerful address to a joint sitting of parliament, urging India to shift from war to negotiations or face another humiliating defeat.

He emphasized that Pakistan has already shown its capabilities in previous conflicts and stressed that war should always remain a last resort.

“Make no mistake. We are ready for you,” Zardari said, calling for meaningful dialogue on regional security and reiterating Pakistan’s full support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The president reviewed multiple national and international issues, including Kashmir, Palestine, Middle East tensions, and domestic military operations such as Marka-e-Haq and Ghazab lil-Haq, praising Pakistan’s armed forces for their discipline and professionalism.

Addressing the Middle East crisis, Zardari condemned attacks on Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and Qatar, urging restraint and negotiated solutions to prevent further escalation.

Read More:Zardari Criticizes Imran Khan, Emphasizes Agriculture, Governance Challenges

On Pakistan’s foreign relations, the president highlighted strengthened ties with the United States, China, Gulf countries, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, while noting new milestones such as the Pakistan-Saudi Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement.

He also criticized India’s unilateral actions on Indus waters, calling it “hydro-terrorism” and warning that Pakistan would defend its water rights.

Domestically, Zardari stressed economic growth, energy reforms, climate-resilient agriculture, women’s empowerment, and expansion of social safety programs like the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

He highlighted the importance of provincial autonomy, inclusive growth, and national unity while reaffirming the constitutional role of the presidency under the 1973 Constitution and the 18th Amendment.

Concluding his address, Zardari called for strengthening sovereignty, eliminating terrorism, safeguarding borders, and creating opportunities for citizens, while urging the nation to preserve unity and institutionalize reforms for a prosperous and secure Pakistan.