Bilawal Bhutto Zardari criticized India for undermining peace efforts led by Donald Trump in a recent press conference. He claimed India uses terrorism as a policy tool and accused it of failing to provide evidence for its allegations against Pakistan. Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, Bilawal welcomed potential U.S. mediation regarding Kashmir. He also condemned India’s actions against Sikh communities and its threats to Pakistan’s water supply, framing these as violations of international law.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), delivered a strong critique of India, accusing it of undermining former U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts toward peace negotiations between Pakistan and India. While flanked by a parliamentary delegation in London, Bilawal said that India’s narrative is built on “lies and propaganda,” contrasting it with Pakistan’s commitment to truth and peace. He also alleged that India has been manipulating terrorist activities as a tool for global influence, specifically pointing out attacks on Sikh activists abroad by Indian agencies.
Bilawal underscored that Trump’s repeated offers to mediate on issues such as Kashmir showcased a genuine desire for peace on his part, yet he expressed disappointment that the Indian government is seemingly sabotaging potential progress. He referenced a statement from the U.S. State Department lauding Trump’s willingness to engage in the Kashmir dispute during his presidency.
“Pakistan has always sought peace through dialogue and diplomacy,” Bilawal stated, insisting that resolving all long-standing disputes, especially Jammu and Kashmir, requires constructive negotiations. He emphasized that a stable relationship between Pakistan and India is crucial not just for the two countries but for the international community as well.
Further making his case, Bilawal pointed out that India has consistently failed to present credible evidence regarding its terrorism claims against Pakistan. He noted, “Despite our continuous demands, India has not been able to prove any of its claims,” reinforcing his assertion that Pakistan has no ties to terrorism, and that India’s attempts to tarnish Pakistan’s image won’t succeed.
The PPP leader reiterated that Pakistan is committed to resolving all disputes—whether they be related to Kashmir or water resources—through peaceful dialogue. “Even President Trump acknowledged that dialogue on Kashmir is essential. If the U.S. must push India to the negotiating table, it should, because peace is in the world’s best interest,” Bilawal remarked.
Additionally, he condemned what he described as India’s campaign against Sikh communities worldwide and its role in fomenting terrorism within Pakistan. Bilawal also criticized India’s threats over water supply disruptions to Pakistan, claiming this contravenes international law as laid out in the UN Charter.
Commenting on Pakistan’s recent security efforts, he declared, “The recent conflict has shown that even as a smaller nation, Pakistan has the strength to defend itself on all fronts.”
Bilawal’s speech underscored Pakistan’s enduring commitment to peace through dialogue, while criticizing India’s approach and challenging their terrorism allegations. His remarks not only emphasized the need for international dialogue but also highlighted Pakistan’s resilience and determination to tackle both regional and global issues. The call for American mediation in the Kashmir dispute particularly stands out as a significant point of his address, reflecting broader geopolitical interests. The rhetoric suggests both urgency and a deep-rooted hope for resolution amid ongoing tensions.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk