BEIJING: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized on Thursday that terrorism remains a universal challenge that should not be exploited for political purposes during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) defence ministers’ meeting.
In his address, he strongly condemned Israel’s unconstitutional and unprovoked strikes against Iran and voiced deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning Israel’s brutality in the Middle East. He called for an immediate ceasefire and urged efforts to end violence against Palestinians.
The Defence Minister reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance against all forms of terrorism, urging the global community to implement effective strategies to eliminate the menace. He appealed to world leaders to refrain from politicizing terrorism-related issues, stressing that such tactics hinder collective security efforts.
Khawaja Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and called for thorough investigations to identify and hold accountable those responsible for attacks, including sponsors and protectors of terrorists. He highlighted that longstanding conflicts in Palestine and Kashmir pose significant threats to international peace and stability, advocating for peaceful resolutions through dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy.
He urged the international community to prioritize resolving these disputes to foster regional harmony. Addressing SCO members, he underscored Pakistan’s crucial role within the organization in promoting regional stability and cooperation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to adhering to the United Nations principles, SCO charter, and international laws.
Furthermore, he stressed that peace and stability in Afghanistan are essential for regional security and aligned with SCO’s broader vision for peace and development in the area
