LONDON; Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday emphasised that Pakistan and India, being neighbours, are destined to coexist, but it is for India to decide whether it wants to continue hostility or build a peaceful relationship.
Speaking to a packed gathering of overseas Pakistanis in London, the premier reflected on Pakistan’s progress, global challenges, and the resilience of the nation.
“Any talks with India must be based on fairness and respect,” Shehbaz said, reminding the audience that Pakistan and India have fought four wars, wasting billions of dollars that could have been used for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and improving the lives of ordinary citizens. “The money squandered on wars should instead fuel the prosperity and development of the people,” he added.
The prime minister underscored that peace with India is possible, but not without addressing the Kashmir issue. He linked the importance of dialogue with justice for millions of Kashmiris who continue to sacrifice for their right to self-determination.
His comments came against the backdrop of the recent 87-hour military conflict in May 2025, triggered by India’s unprovoked missile strikes inside Pakistan. In retaliation, the Pakistan Army launched Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos (Iron Wall), which successfully countered the aggression. The Pakistan Air Force shot down six Indian jets, including advanced Rafale fighters, while defending national sovereignty. The clashes raised fears of nuclear escalation but eventually ended through a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
Shehbaz Sharif reminded the gathering that Pakistan had no involvement in the Pahalgam incident, where tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir were attacked in April. Despite Islamabad’s offer of a transparent investigation, New Delhi opted for military action on May 6, killing 54 people and destroying mosques. “Our Air Force gave them a befitting response, and the enemy knew its fate within hours,” he remarked.
On international issues, Shehbaz spoke about Gaza, where more than 64,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, stressing that “our destinies are forever linked, whether people like it or not.”
Turning to Pakistan’s achievements, the prime minister said recent successes have boosted the country’s global standing. He lauded the contribution of the Pakistani diaspora, calling them “great ambassadors” of the nation. “You have sent $38 billion back home,” he said, adding that remittances are vital for the economy.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also addressed the gathering, describing remittances as the “lifeline” of Pakistan’s economy. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar praised Shehbaz Sharif’s team for working tirelessly to stabilise the country.
Dar noted that inflation has dropped to 5% and interest rates to 11%, recalling that when the government took office, many predicted Pakistan would default. “Through relentless efforts, we brought stability and gave the economy a new direction,” he said. He added that Pakistan’s diplomatic profile had improved globally, citing the strong response given to India during the May conflict.
The prime minister concluded by vowing that the sacrifices of Kashmiris would not be in vain, while reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to peace — but only on equal and fair terms.
