LAHORE: Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan responded to recent Indian provocations with restraint, maturity, and a firm commitment to peace, earning global praise for its composure and diplomatic posture.
Speaking to the media after visiting the International Solar Energy Exhibition at the Expo Centre, Gilani credited national unity for the country’s coherent response. “The entire nation, alongside all political parties, displayed extraordinary solidarity. This unity strengthened our position and was critical to delivering a strong, measured response to the enemy,” he said.
He lauded the professionalism and bravery of Pakistan’s armed forces, saying they acted with precision and in self-defense. “Our armed forces responded decisively while upholding peace. This balanced approach has been recognised globally,” he added.
Gilani underscored that Pakistan has always chosen dialogue over confrontation, despite repeated provocations. “We have never taken any step that could endanger regional stability. Our conduct reflects our commitment to diplomacy,” he said.
Referring to India’s actions in Balochistan, he recalled that during his tenure as Prime Minister, he had presented credible evidence of Indian interference at international forums. “Even Bollywood’s The Accidental Prime Minister hinted at the contradictions in Indian policy. That exposure eventually pushed India toward dialogue on Siachen, Kashmir, and Balochistan,” he said.
He criticised India’s refusal to allow a neutral probe into the Pahalgam attack and condemned the unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. “Blocking river flows is a violation of international law. Pakistan’s leadership and armed forces have shown full readiness to defend our sovereignty,” he noted.
On domestic issues, Gilani stressed the importance of unity over partisanship. He refrained from commenting on PTI’s ongoing legal cases, noting they are before the courts. “We must focus on bringing the nation together. Political divisions must not distract from our shared priorities,” he said.
Regarding the upcoming federal budget, he urged the government to provide maximum relief to ordinary citizens. “We are public representatives. I expect the budget to address the needs of the common man,” he stated.
He also called for greater emphasis on affordable energy. “If subsidies are being reconsidered, we must offer the public cost-effective alternatives, like solar energy, to ease the burden of high utility bills,” he added, while urging cuts in unnecessary expenditure.
Commenting on the PPP’s role in national politics, Gilani said the party always puts Pakistan first. “It’s not about individuals or parties. Whether through Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz or coordination committees, our focus remains national progress,” he said.
Earlier, the Senate chairman toured various stalls at the solar exhibition and commended the quality of locally produced solar products. He was accompanied by Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mian Abuzar Shad.
