—– Says country’s desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness or a reluctance to face aggression
—– Adds no one can challenge Pakistan’s sovereignty
—– Asks India to shun negative policies, come to senses
MUZAFFARABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance and unwavering support on the Kashmir issue on Friday, categorically stating that no one should underestimate Pakistan’s commitment to peace and the country’s desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness or a reluctance to face aggression.
“Pakistan is not a nation that seeks war, but if anyone perceives us as weak or hesitant, they should dispel this misconception. Muzaffarabad is not Gaza, and New Delhi is not Tel Aviv. No one should dare to harm our children,” he stressed during an interaction with students from various colleges and universities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) during his two-day visit.
Expressing confidence in Pakistan’s defence capabilities in the face of Indian aggression, he drew a distinction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, highlighting their differing approaches and response mechanisms.
Addressing rumours about a shift in Pakistan’s policy regarding the possible merger of Azad Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan, the prime minister firmly rejected such notions, stating, “No one can entertain such a foolish act. Nobody dares.” He attributed the spread of rumours to enemies aiming to create misunderstandings, reaffirming Pakistan’s principled stance on Kashmir backed by the sacrifices of 90,000 people over the decades.
He clarified that Pakistan had fought three wars with India over Kashmir but emphasised that transforming Kashmir into Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa was out of the question. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to not deviate from its principled position.
Responding to a suggestion about a corridor between AJK and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), he highlighted India’s restrictions on the movement of Kashmiris and stressed that such possibilities could only be explored once the Kashmir question reaches its final settlement.
The prime minister asserted that the only viable solution to the Kashmir dispute was to hold a plebiscite in accordance with the United Nations Security Council’s resolutions. During his visit, he said he engaged in detailed consultations with AJK parliamentarians and Hurriyat leadership, exploring ways to address the issue in collaboration with society and the diaspora.
Turning to the situation in Gaza, Prime Minister Kakar affirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the Palestinian cause, condemning Israel’s use of brutal force against Palestinians. He mentioned Pakistan’s assistance, including sending a field hospital and doubled humanitarian aid, and emphasised the need for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of a humanitarian corridor.
“Gaza is close to our hearts, and Israel has earned nothing but hatred. It has gained no fame,” he remarked.
Addressing the repatriation of illegal foreigners from Pakistan, Prime Minister Kakar clarified that only those posing a security challenge were being repatriated. Regarding brain drain, he reiterated his stance, encouraging it as a means of asset creation through remittances and the positive projection of Pakistan’s image. However, he emphasised the need to improve education quality and address gaps to meet domestic and global demand for graduates.
On the topic of the increasing interest rate, the prime minister stated that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), as an autonomous body, determined interest rates and monetary policy independently, without government control. He expressed hope for improvement in economic indicators and reassured that the government remained in contact with the central bank.
Regarding various education-related issues, including syllabi changes, educational scholarships, and salary structures for new doctors and physiotherapists, the prime minister committed to addressing these concerns with the AJK government and relevant departments, pledging to play a role wherever necessary. –Agencies
