Pakistan rejects US sanctions; Kashmir resolution vital to regional stability
Islamabad: Pakistan has strongly criticized the recent US sanctions imposed on commercial entities, calling the move biased and detrimental to peace in South Asia.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the sanctions have been termed an attempt to undermine Pakistan’s strategic defense capabilities.
Pakistan has always highlighted its strategic capabilities solely intended for defending its sovereignty and maintaining peace in a region marked by a nuclear flashpoint—Kashmir. “The US sanctions not only accentuate military asymmetries but also defy the objective of peace and stability in South Asia,” the Foreign Office said in a statement.
Pakistan, with hostile nuclear-armed neighbors like India, cannot afford to compromise on its defense. The root cause of instability in South Asia lies in the unresolved Kashmir dispute, the bone of contention between Pakistan and India. Without addressing this core issue, measures such as imposing sanctions are unjustifiable.
The Foreign Office criticized the double standards, noting that similar sanctions in the past were based on unfounded allegations. It further added that waiving licensing requirements for advanced military technologies to certain other countries highlights clear bias.
Pakistan reiterated its commitment to maintaining a credible minimum deterrence and preserving strategic stability in the region. “Our strategic program is a sacred trust bestowed by 240 million Pakistanis. It is non-negotiable and held in the highest regard across the political spectrum,” the statement emphasized.
Islamabad has frequently urged the international community to recognize the dangers posed by the Kashmir dispute. “The presence of over one million Indian forces in occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the imposition of repressive laws amplify the risks of regional escalation. Addressing Kashmir is imperative for achieving sustainable peace and security in South Asia,” observers said.
Pakistan has vowed to resist any attempts to compromise its defense and sovereignty while continuing to call for dialogue and resolution of the Kashmir dispute to ensure lasting peace.
