Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif presided over a crucial meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on April 24, 2025. This meeting was conducted to address national security matter especially the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack in the Anantnag District of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on April 22, 2025. The committee’s decisions reflected Pakistan’s firm stance on its national interests and sovereignty.
Pakistan fervently rejected India’s announcement to dismiss the Indus Waters Treaty and affirmed that water is a vital national interest for its 240 million people. Pakistan made it clear that any attempt to alter the flow of water as per the Treaty would be seen as an Act of War and met with full national power.
In response to India’s provocations and disregard for international law, Pakistan decided to suspend all bilateral agreements including the Simla Agreement and impose immediate actions. Decisions include the closure of the Wagah Border Post, suspension of visas under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), and the expulsion of Indian defense, naval, and air advisors from Islamabad. Pakistan also reduced the Indian High Commission staff in Islamabad and closed its airspace to Indian airlines. Furthermore, trade with India was halted.
The NSC underscored Pakistan’s preparedness to defend its sovereigntyy, drawing upon its history of resolute responses, such as during the 2019 confrontation. The meeting also highlighted the validity of the Two-Nation Theory, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to peace while safeguarding its dignity and rights.
On the international front, Prime Minister Sharif concluded a two-day visit to Turkiye on April 22, 2025. In Turkiye he held in-depth talks with President Erdogan to further strengthen bilateral relations. Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited Pakistan from April 20-21, 2025. The two sides signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance trade, cultural cooperation, and diplomatic ties.
Further international engagements saw the visit of Rwandan Foreign Minister Ambassador Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, during which an MOU on diplomatic training was signed. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar also visited Kabul, where he engaged in constructive talks with Afghan leadership and aimed to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Telephonic dialogues between Mr. Dar and counterparts from Uzbekistan, Iran, and Oman fortified Pakistan’s commitment to regional connectivity and deeper cooperation in various sectors.
In other developments, Pakistan-Russia relations were further solidified with a successful round of bilateral consultations on countering international terrorism. The round of bilateral consultations was focused on the growing threat of transnational terrorism in Afghanistan.
Lastly, Pakistan conveyed heartfelt condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, recognizing his tireless work in promoting peace, interfaith dialogue, and human dignity. The Foreign Office paid tribute to his legacy, which continues to inspire a world united in compassion and understanding.
This series of diplomatic engagements and national decisions reflects Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to securing its interests and fostering meaningful international relations.
