Srinagar: Pakistan has condemned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at the 25th commemoration of Kargil Vijay Diwas as “militant” and “chauvinistic”.
A statement issued by the foreign office in Islamabad late on Friday night said: “Pakistan rejects the bellicose rhetoric made by the Indian Prime Minister at Drass. Bravado and chauvinism undermine regional peace and are totally counterproductive to the resolution of the long-standing disputes between Pakistan and India, particularly the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir.”
In his speech, PM Modi blamed Pakistan for the rise in terror attacks in Jammu region, saying “the evil plans of terror masterminds will never succeed” and said India will defeat any terror challenge. He described Pakistan as “ah‘(Master of Terror) and’Salparast “Our neighbouring country has not learnt any lessons from the past debacle in Jammu and Kashmir and is harbouring terrorists,” he alleged.
In response, the foreign ministry in Islamabad said, “The rhetorical statements of Indian leaders cannot divert the international community’s attention from India’s coercive approach to stifle the legitimate struggle of the Kashmiri people for the realization of their fundamental rights and freedoms, especially their inalienable right to self-determination.”
“Instead of vilifying other countries for terrorism, India should look back at its own activities in orchestrating targeted assassinations, sabotage and terrorism on foreign soil,” the statement added.
It added, “Pakistan is firmly willing and capable of defending its sovereignty against any aggression, as exemplified by its strong response to the reckless Indian aggression in February 2019. While Pakistan stands ready to counter any aggressive Indian actions, it remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the region.”
