Pakistan showed restraint as responsible nuclear power during India conflict: Gilani

Acting President and Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said on Sunday that Pakistan was a responsible nuclear state, despite Indian aggression after the Pahalgam incident, Islamabad showed restraint while protecting its right to self-defense.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 41st annual dinner of the Old Ravians Association in Lahore, Gilani said this was a time for unity and such unity was also demonstrated when India attacked and Pakistan responded as a responsible nuclear state.

“India not only carried out an attack but also unilaterally revoked the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan showed restraint while protecting its right to self-defence,” he said.

Escalation between Pakistan and India began on 22 April 2025 when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan categorically denied the Indian blame.

In response, India took a series of hostile actions the next day, on 23 April 2025, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), canceling visas for Pakistani nationals, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the closure of the Pakistan High Commission’s diplomatic staff in New Delhi, as well as other diplomatic embassies in Pakistan.

The Acting President in his address today said that Pakistan’s brave armed forces and political leadership through their unity sent a clear message to the world that Pakistan was a responsible nuclear state.

Gilani added that Pakistan had called for an independent inquiry into the Pahalgam incident but had received no response, while its position had been recognized internationally.

Commenting on the recent crisis, Gilani said that Pakistan played a responsible and active role in promoting peace, dialogue and stability in the region and its diplomatic efforts were recognized at the global level.

He said sustained efforts were essential for global peace at a time when the world was undergoing significant change.

Gilani added that Pakistan continued to play a constructive role in promoting peace, dialogue and stability in the region and that its diplomatic efforts – including those aimed at easing tensions between Iran and the US – had been appreciated by the international community.

Gilani also stressed the need to address major challenges such as climate change and adapt to global demands, saying the world is currently undergoing an important phase of transformation.

The Acting President also emphasized that Pakistan needs to adapt to new global challenges, especially technological advancements and climate change.

During his address, Gilani also highlighted Government College University Lahore’s role in producing generations of leaders and thinkers, noting its long-standing tradition of academic excellence and character building.

He called on the Old Ravians Association to institute structured mentoring programs for young graduates to help them meet changing professional demands and urged alumni to maintain strong ties with their alma mater, saying the true legacy of an institution lies in its enduring relationships and shared values.