POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Khawaja Asif Urges India-Pak Talks on Kashmir, Terror, Water

Khawaja Asif says it’s a golden chance for India & Pakistan to resolve Kashmir, terrorism & water issues. Warns against Modi's aggression; hails Pakistan’s diplomatic & military response.
2025-05-12
Khawaja Asif Urges India-Pak Talks on Kashmir, Terror, Water

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has called for meaningful negotiations between Pakistan and India, stating that any future talks must focus on three longstanding issues: Kashmir, terrorism, and water. In an interview with Geo News, the minister emphasized that this is a "golden opportunity" for both nations to resolve decades-old tensions and chart a path forward.

“These three issues — Kashmir, terrorism, and water — have defined the relationship between India and Pakistan for the past 76 years,” Asif stated. “Pakistan has suffered immensely from terrorism, and this is a critical moment for both countries to sit together and solve these challenges.”

He further noted that U.S. President Donald Trump had also recognized the importance of addressing the Kashmir issue, adding international weight to the need for dialogue.

Speaking on recent border skirmishes, the minister reiterated that most conflicts between India and Pakistan have roots in the Kashmir dispute. “The war that took place the day before yesterday was again because of Kashmir. Modi tried to push this region into the flames of conflict, but by the grace of Allah, our armed forces stood firm like an iron wall,” he added.

Khawaja Asif strongly criticized the narrative pushed by Indian leadership, saying it was ironic that the country most affected by terrorism—Pakistan—is being accused of sponsoring it. He clarified that the water-related issues were already resolved in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which leaves no room for suspension or manipulation.

He hailed Pakistan’s recent military response to Indian aggression as a sign of strength and preparedness. “Modi is facing backlash in his own parliament, media, and military briefings. He is licking his wounds, while we have achieved a diplomatic and military victory,” the defense minister claimed. “This is perhaps the greatest strategic success for Pakistan in its 76-year history.”

Asif also remarked that the global community, barring Israel, has not sided with India during the recent tensions. “Pakistan has shown both restraint and resolve. If India attempts such a move again, the world will see Pakistan standing united, strong, and principled.”