Peace initiatives yield substantial advantages: Asif
On Friday, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan’s endeavors to mediate the conflict between the United States and Iran posed no risks to the nation; instead, the advantages were substantial, emphasizing that abstaining from the confrontation was not a viable choice.
In a television interview, Asif stated that Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkiye were engaged in initiatives to halt the war and avert additional devastation in the region, asserting that Islamabad was playing a “very pivotal role” in resolving a crisis affecting a fraternal Muslim community.
Asif characterized the circumstance as a momentous opportunity for Pakistan. We must capitalize on the opportunities presented by nature. “I believe that abstaining is not a viable option,” he stated, noting that there were not “numerous significant risk factors” for Pakistan, and “I believe the advantages are substantial.”
The defense minister attributed Pakistan’s mediatory role to its “enhanced international image” and reputation among Muslim nations following last year’s armed clash with India. He stated that Pakistan is experiencing a “unique phase” in its history, characterized by robust trust and confidence.Asif informed the journalist, “An alternative perspective on this matter is our relations with the US and their current trajectory,” noting that Pakistan has never attained such a prominent diplomatic position with Washington previously.
He indicated that Pakistan is currently engaged in an intense conflict with Afghanistan, whilst relations with India are characterized as “lukewarm.” History is being created. The leadership of Pakistan and the hybrid system are yielding results. He stated, “I believe both Pindi and Islamabad have acknowledged that Pakistan’s esteem is founded on a unified leadership front.”
In answer to inquiries over the mutual defense agreement with Saudi Arabia and the kingdom’s potential reaction to Iran, he stated: “We may be influenced by the circumstances, you are entirely correct.” This underscores the heightened significance of diplomacy to prevent such situations from occurring.
When inquired about allegations regarding Pakistan facilitating US-Iran discussions, Asif refrained from providing a straight response, suggesting that it would be preferable for the process to progress organically. He also admonished Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar for his derogatory comments on Pakistan.
Regarding operations in Afghanistan, he stated that Pakistan had effectively exerted pressure but could not foresee the long-term consequences. “The operation we initiated remains unfinished; there was a pause due to Eid, and global focus is presently directed towards a more significant conflict,” he stated.We will provide them no reprieve; this is unequivocal. “We must finalize this operation to achieve optimal results,” he continued. The minister articulated optimism that China’s influence in Afghanistan would facilitate a definitive resolution to the problem.