In a declaration issued on Saturday, Pakistan reaffirmed its unwavering commitment and capability to uphold its sovereignty, following a statement made by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh suggesting India’s readiness to pursue terrorists fleeing to Pakistan after conducting attacks within India.
According to a communication from the Foreign Office, Pakistan has consistently exhibited its dedication to regional harmony, yet emphasizes that its pursuit of peace should not be misinterpreted.
The annals of history bear witness to Pakistan’s steadfast determination and capacity to safeguard itself, the Foreign Office articulated, while denouncing India’s ruling administration for employing vitriolic language to secure electoral advantage.
This response from the Foreign Office was prompted by Singh’s remarks on Friday, wherein he asserted that India would deliver a fitting response if terrorists attempted to disrupt peace or engage in acts of terrorism within India, and further stated that if said terrorists sought refuge in Pakistan, India would pursue them across the border.
Singh’s comments were prompted by a report in The Guardian alleging that Indian intelligence agencies had undertaken targeted killings of terrorists within Pakistan as part of an assertive shift in national security strategy post-2019.
The Foreign Office reiterated Pakistan’s firm determination and capacity to defend its sovereignty against any form of aggression, while dismissing India’s assertions of military supremacy.
India’s avowal to undertake extrajudicial killings of additional civilians labeled as ‘terrorists’ within Pakistan is a blatant acknowledgment of guilt, the statement contended.
The international community, the statement emphasized, must hold India accountable for its reprehensible and unlawful actions, which not only undermine regional tranquility but also hinder the prospects of constructive engagement in the long run.
In response, Singh reiterated India’s desire to maintain amicable relations with its neighbor, affirming India’s historical record of refraining from aggressive actions or territorial expansion.
However, Singh warned that India would not hesitate to retaliate against any attempts to foment terrorist activities within its borders.