ISLAMABAD: Asif Ali Zardari addressed a joint sitting of Parliament on Monday, declaring that Pakistan would not permit any internal or external actor to use neighbouring territory to disrupt its peace. His speech came amid loud protests by opposition members.
The session, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior civil and military officials, and chaired by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, focused on regional security, the Kashmir dispute, Middle East tensions, and what the president described as India’s escalating “water aggression.”
Calling it his ninth parliamentary address as head of state, Zardari termed the speech a symbol of democratic continuity and institutional responsibility. Despite repeated interruptions from opposition lawmakers demanding the release of former prime minister Imran Khan, the president continued outlining his message.
Regional Security and Afghanistan
Zardari said Pakistan had responded to border challenges with “strategic restraint and firm resolve,” praising the armed forces for maintaining stability. Referring to a recent report by the United Nations Security Council, he warned that militant groups operating from Afghanistan pose broader regional threats.
He urged Afghan Taliban authorities to eliminate safe havens used by groups such as Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and the Balochistan Liberation Army, stressing that Pakistan would not tolerate any cross-border destabilisation.
Middle East Crisis
Expressing concern over rising tensions in the Middle East, the president opposed unilateral military action against any country and condemned the ongoing war targeting Iran while diplomatic negotiations were still in progress. He also criticised Iranian strikes on Gulf states, urging all sides to show restraint and adhere to international law.
He emphasized that restoring regional stability is essential to rebuilding global trust and preventing deeper conflict.
India and Water Dispute
A major part of the address focused on Pakistan’s water security. Zardari accused India of attempting to manipulate river flows in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty. He labeled such actions as “hydro-terrorism” and warned that suspending the treaty could seriously damage Pakistan’s agriculture and regional peace.
He reiterated that international law prohibits the unilateral suspension or blockage of water resources and pledged that Pakistan would defend its rights through unity and legal means.
On Kashmir, the president reaffirmed Islamabad’s longstanding stance that lasting peace in South Asia depends on resolving the dispute, calling on India to engage in constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.
Economic and Domestic Agenda
Turning to domestic matters, Zardari linked economic strength with national security. He credited the government with stabilizing the economy after what he described as a near-collapse in 2022. He highlighted the need for inclusive economic growth, tax reforms, lower energy costs, climate-resilient agriculture, and improved water management.
The high-profile session, attended by provincial leaders and foreign diplomats, underscored Pakistan’s focus on navigating mounting regional tensions while pursuing economic recovery.
