Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General LT Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Pakistanis “celebrate peace, not victory”, reflecting the nation’s humility and preference for stability as he confirmed the country’s uncomfortable decision and strength to protect his sovereignty in the midst of rising regional tensions.
In an exclusive interview with CGTV, he emphasized the country’s commitment to peace while condemning unfounded aggression and false accusations from India.
In response to questions about the possibility of escalating conflicts after the Pahagam event, LT Gen Gen Chaudhry said first and foremost to trust Allah and then on ourselves.
The tension between Pakistan and India began with an attack in Pahagam on April 22, killing 26 people who blamed Pakistan without public evidence.
By retaliation, India Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Wagah-Attari border and took diplomatic measures.
Pakistan responded with mutual actions, including stopping trade and closing the airspace. Tensions escalated further with missile attacks, which led to air fighting and drone attacks.
A ceasefire was announced on May 11 after diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan crediting the United States, China and the Gulf States, while India claimed the ceasefire was due to bilateral conversations.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s unwavering determination and strength have been repeatedly detected, and the international community is also expected to play its role in maintaining regional peace.
The ISPR chief criticized the ongoing aggression and false accusations against Pakistan and noted that mature nations are focused on tackling global challenges such as climate change, wrong information and overpopulation rather than introducing domination through unfounded attacks.
“We have never bent before, and we will never,” he said, adding that for Pakistan’s armed forces the desire for martyrdom is greater than life.
At Pakistan’s partnership with China, LT Gen Gen Chaudhry highlighted the joint commitment to both countries for peace, stability and economic development. He noted the importance of fighting terrorism as a common threat to progress and praised China’s rapid development as a global model.
The ISPR chief concerned Pakistan’s national power as an “iron wall” consisting of people involved in development projects and dealing with internal security concerns, especially attacks on Chinese engineers in development projects.
He expressed confidence that Pakistan continues to move on to development and stability.
“Just see how this country will now move on quickly towards the development destination – Inshaallah,” concluded LT Gen Chaudhry.
He added that Pakistan shared China’s vision for regional peace and prosperity and praised Peking’s rapid development as a global model.
“China is a mature and responsible player,” Gen Sharif said, adding that its unprecedented progress in modern history – especially by lifting a huge population out of poverty – is as a remarkable example for the world to witness.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s state and people also strive to follow a similar path. “We also want to move towards development and stability,” he said. “We owe it to Pakistan’s people, to our future generations. Therefore, our preference is always peace.”
In the reflective of the national mood, the army spokesman said that Pakistanis “celebrate peace, not victory.”
“There is humility in our people. We are down to earth and grateful to Allah,” he noted.
