Islamabad (Staff Reporter)
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, has welcomed a report issued by United Nations human rights experts expressing serious concern over India’s military actions against Pakistan in May this year, and its broader conduct affecting regional and global peace and stability.
In a statement issued by the President’s Secretariat on Friday, President Zardari said the report validates Pakistan’s longstanding position that the unilateral use of force across international borders violates the UN Charter and constitutes a serious breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty. He highlighted the report’s findings regarding civilian casualties, damage to populated areas and religious sites in Pakistan, and the heightened risk of escalating tensions due to India’s actions.
President Zardari appreciated the report’s observations on India’s suspension of obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty, its aggressive behavior and statements, and the severe civilian harm caused by Indian aggression. He emphasized that the treaty is a binding international agreement and a cornerstone of regional stability, and that disregarding established mechanisms for dispute resolution or obstructing water flow violates Pakistan’s rights and could have serious human rights implications.
He noted that the UN report reflects growing global concern over India’s conduct, which relies on coercion, threats, and violence instead of law and dialogue. He also referenced reports of cross-border violence and targeted killings in various countries, highlighting a dangerous trend that undermines both regional stability and international norms.
President Zardari stressed that such reckless behavior cannot continue and cited the report’s conclusion that international law does not recognize any unilateral right to military action under the pretext of combating terrorism. The report also reaffirms Pakistan’s natural right to self-defense, underlining the gravity of India’s violations.
Furthermore, the President welcomed UN scrutiny of India’s regional conduct, including its support for terrorist groups and exploitation of an illegal Afghan government for hostile purposes, calling for transparency and accountability. He also praised the UN Special Rapporteur’s call for credible evidence, compensation for civilian harm, adherence to treaty obligations, and peaceful negotiations on all disputes, including Jammu and Kashmir.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to international law, peace, and restraint, President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan will continue to use diplomatic and legal avenues to safeguard its sovereignty, protect the rights of its people, and promote stability in the region.