ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz has reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong desire for peace in South Asia, while defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs.
He made the remarks during a meeting with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House.
The premier, while reaffirming Pakistan’s firm commitment to upholding the ceasefire understanding, stressed that Pakistan had exercised great patience and restraint in the face of India’s baseless accusations and unprovoked aggression.
He reiterated that in exercise of the right to self-defence, Pakistan’s response was measured, proportionate, and targeted. He reiterated Pakistan’s strong desire for peace in South Asia, while defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs.
The Prime Minister also conveyed his warm greetings to King Charles III, as well as to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Expressing satisfaction over the growing Pakistan-UK partnership, he reiterated his desire to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across various domains.
The UK Foreign Secretary commended the Prime Minister on the ceasefire understanding and assured that the UK would remain engaged in efforts to advance peace and stability in the region.
Earlier today, Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and held detailed discussions on recent developments in South Asia, particularly the situation following the ceasefire understanding between Pakistan and India.
Ishaq Dar briefed the UK Foreign Secretary on India’s unprovoked and belligerent actions, which constituted a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty, international law, the UN Charter, and established norms of interstate relations.
He underlined that Pakistan exercised its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, and that Pakistan’s response remained limited, precise, and proportionate, with utmost care taken to avoid civilian casualties.
The Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the UK’s constructive and productive engagement in helping de-escalate the situation.
Both sides stressed the importance of restraint and sustained dialogue to prevent further escalation and to maintain regional peace and stability.
The two sides also held wide-ranging discussions on Pakistan-UK bilateral relations. They expressed satisfaction at the steady progress in trade, economic cooperation, and development partnerships.
