‘War Is Not the Answer’: Pakistan President Zardari Urges India to Choose Dialogue Over Conflict

Islamabad: Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari gave a big statement in the joint session of Parliament on Monday. He accused India that New Delhi is preparing for another war. Zardari said that Indian leaders are openly saying that they are getting ready for another war. Describing himself as a long-time supporter of regional peace, he said, "I wouldn't advise it."

Why was India appealed to stay away from war?

Zardari warned India that it should leave the theater of war and come to the table for meaningful talks. He said, “This is the only way to regional security—dialogue." He stressed that Pakistan is always ready for talks. But also made it clear that if anyone attacks, Pakistan will respond in a decisive manner. He said war is the last option, and Pakistan has shown only a part of its potential in the past.

What was said on Indus Waters Treaty?

Zardari strongly condemned India's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. He called it "hydro-terrorism," i.e. terrorism of water. He said that India is using water flow as a political weapon, which is a threat to Pakistan's agriculture and economy. This is a violation of international law and is increasing instability in the region.

What did he say on Kashmir issue?

He reiterated that Pakistan will continue to provide diplomatic and moral support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. There will be no lasting peace in South Asia until the Kashmir issue is resolved.

How was the terrorism warning from Afghanistan?

Zardari turned to the West and cited a recent United Nations report warning of the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan. He said that if it is ignored, then any country can face a major attack. Pakistan tried diplomatic routes, but now it is clear—Pakistan's land is sacred. No domestic or foreign power will be able to create instability in the neighboring region. He accused the Taliban government of not adhering to the Doha Agreement and said such groups should be eliminated.

What did he say on Middle East and other issues?

Zardari condemned the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Condemned attacks on Iran and expressed grief over the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He also condemned the attacks on Gulf countries like UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. He also reiterated the demand for an independent state for Palestine on the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) as its capital.

This was Zardari's ninth address in Parliament. But members of the opposition PTI repeatedly interrupted with slogans. They are demanding the release of Imran Khan and slogans like “Go Zardari.” The atmosphere remained tense, but Zardari gave his full statement. At a time when tensions are at their peak in the region, these statements are worth keeping an eye on from both sides. Hopefully everything will be fine through talks.