Pakistan Rejects Indian Defence Minister’s Remarks, Says Kashmir Status Cannot Be Changed by Political Rhetoric
ISLAMABAD:** Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has rejected recent remarks by India’s Defence Minister, saying that internationally recognized legal realities cannot be altered through aggressive rhetoric or political pressure.
In a statement, Khawaja Asif said the Indian minister’s comments represent another attempt to distort internationally recognized legal facts through political narratives and coercive tactics.
He said such statements cannot change the status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) nor contribute to peace, stability, or meaningful dialogue in the region.
The defence minister reiterated Pakistan’s position that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized disputed territory, adding that its final status should be determined in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Khawaja Asif also said that India’s allegations against Pakistan undermine regional peace and security. He stressed that Pakistan remains committed to peace and dialogue while maintaining its resolve to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.
He further claimed that the Indian defence minister’s remarks were intended to divert attention from India’s internal political challenges and growing domestic unrest.
The minister also alleged that India is the principal sponsor of instability and terrorism in South Asia, accusing New Delhi of pursuing expansionist policies that threaten regional security.
**Note:** The statements reflect the official position of Pakistan’s Defence Minister. India has not immediately responded to these remarks.
