Pakistan achieves great diplomatic achievements on international forum: Khawaja Asif

SIALKOT, Oct 31 (APP): Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Saturday highlighted Pakistan’s international diplomatic standing, military achievements, national security challenges and the importance of educating younger generations.

Speaking at the University of Central Punjab convention here, he said Pakistan had achieved a significant position on the international diplomatic stage following its military success against India, adding that Pakistan had defeated an enemy five times larger and described the outcome as a historic achievement.

Khawaja Asif  said that India’s military personnel, senior military officials, media outlets and leadership had acknowledged the outcome, adding that the Indian leadership had made no counter-claim.

The defence minister described the development as a major honour for Pakistan, marking a significant moment in the country’s history and strengthening its position on the international diplomatic stage.

He also paid tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan for their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, saying that their commitment and sacrifices had played a vital role in safeguarding the country’s independence and security.

He paid tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces for their years-long fight against terrorism, highlighting the immense sacrifices made by military personnel in defending the country’s sovereignty and independence.

“For years, our armed forces have been fighting terrorism and sacrificing their lives to protect Pakistan. They have watered the soil of this country with their blood to safeguard its freedom,” he added.

Khawaja Asif referred to remarks by the US president, who reportedly mentioned on 11 occasions how many Indian aircraft Pakistan had shot down during the conflict.

He stated that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir were continuing to strengthen the country’s position globally, adding that the prayers and support of the people had also played an important role in the country’s achievements.

He emphasized the need for unity among the approximately 2.5 billion Muslims worldwide, saying Pakistan wanted to help bring the Muslim world together on a common platform.

The defence minister said Pakistan had demonstrated the importance of self-reliance in national defence.

Khawaja Asif called for comprehensive reforms in Pakistan’s education curriculum, saying the younger generation has limited knowledge of the country’s political, constitutional and historical journey due to shortcomings in the education system.

Khawaja Asid said the younger generation had little understanding of Pakistan’s political life during the 1950s and the country’s constitutional development.

“I have repeatedly raised this issue on the floor of the National Assembly. Correcting the curriculum is our responsibility and a debt we owe to the nation,” he said.

The defence minister stressed that students must learn about Pakistan’s independence movement, the sacrifices made by previous generations during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and the circumstances that led to the creation of Pakistan.

He also urged students to understand that obtaining a degree alone does not necessarily add real value to an individual’s life.

He said education contributes to personal development in ways that go beyond material benefits and financial achievements.

“Education makes you a capable human being, purifies your soul and opens the doors of your mind,” he added.