ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Tuesday urged political leaders to prioritize constitutional politics, national integrity, and the country’s security over personal interests. Addressing the National Assembly, the minister emphasized that Parliament should project a message of dignity and national unity to Pakistan’s 260 million citizens, suggesting that persistent confrontational politics only serve to deepen internal bitterness.

Key Points

• Khawaja Muhammad Asif called for political disputes to be settled through dialogue rather than confrontation.
• The defence minister addressed allegations made by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, regarding recent diplomatic discussions.
• Asif clarified that discussions in Iran focused on peace and regional de-escalation rather than specific defence agreements.
• The minister highlighted the role of the armed forces in achieving diplomatic successes recognised by major international powers.

Prioritizing National Interests in Parliament

Khawaja Muhammad Asif stressed that political leadership, including senior parliamentarians, must demonstrate responsibility rather than engaging in verbal clashes. Referencing a speech delivered by the JUI-F chief, the defence minister noted that while he respects the veteran politician’s stature, accusations made against the government lacked substantiating evidence. He also questioned the decade-long tenure of a former chairman of the Kashmir Committee, asking for a review of his contributions to the Kashmir cause.

Addressing Diplomatic and Defence Strategy

Responding to concerns regarding international outreach, the minister clarified that recent discussions in Tehran were aimed at promoting peace rather than establishing a new defence policy. He affirmed that Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir played a pivotal role in facilitating regional dialogue. Furthermore, he highlighted that Pakistan has engaged in significant defence arrangements with nations including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Qatar, and Indonesia, which he noted are foundational to the country’s contemporary diplomatic history.

Call for Unconditional National Unity

The minister expressed regret that narrow political differences have occasionally prevented members of the House from acknowledging the country’s military and diplomatic achievements. He urged all political parties to demonstrate tolerance and inform their voters that there are critical issues upon which they must maintain unconditional unity. By avoiding the escalation of minor disagreements into major confrontations, he argued, the political class could better serve the collective national interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the focus of the discussions held in Iran?

The Defence Minister clarified that the discussions in Iran were not related to a defence agreement, but were specifically aimed at promoting peace and regional dialogue.

What is the stance of the Defence Minister on political unity?

Khawaja Muhammad Asif urged political parties to set aside personal and group differences to demonstrate unconditional unity on issues of national importance and to acknowledge the nation’s military and diplomatic successes.