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

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

Speaking as the chief guest at the 41st annual dinner of the Old Ravians Association in Lahore, Gilani said it was a moment 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 preserving its right to self-defense,” he said.

The escalation between Pakistan and India began on April 22, 2025, when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan has categorically rejected Indian responsibility.

In response, India undertook a series of hostile actions the next day, April 23, 2025, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Water Treaty (IWT), canceling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border post, ordering the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi to close, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other’s embassies.

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

Gilani added that Pakistan had demanded an independent investigation into the Pahalgam incident but had not received any response, although its position had been recognized internationally.

Commenting on the recent crisis, Gilani said Pakistan was playing a responsible and active role in promoting peace, dialogue and stability in the region, and its diplomatic efforts were being recognized globally.

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

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

Gilani also highlighted the need to address major challenges such as climate change and adapt to changing global demands, saying the world was currently going through a significant phase of transformation.

The Acting President also emphasized that Pakistan must align itself with emerging global challenges, particularly technological advancement and climate change.

During his speech, Gilani also highlighted the role of Government College University Lahore in producing generations of leaders and thinkers, highlighting its long tradition of academic excellence and character building.

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