Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has welcomed a report by United Nations human rights experts, which expresses serious concerns regarding India’s military actions against Pakistan in May and its broader impact on global peace and stability.
The President stated that the report supports Pakistan’s position that India’s unilateral use of force across borders violates the United Nations Charter and breaches Pakistan’s sovereignty. He noted the findings about civilian deaths and damage to populated areas and religious sites in Pakistan, emphasizing the risk of escalation.
President Zardari appreciated the report’s observations on India’s suspension of its obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty and its aggressive stance. He stressed that this treaty remains a binding agreement crucial for regional stability and that bypassing dispute-resolution mechanisms violates Pakistan’s rights.
The President remarked that the report highlights international concerns about India’s conduct, labeling it as a global bully using coercion and violence. He pointed out reports of transnational violence attributed to India, which undermine global norms.
He expressed concern about India’s irresponsible behavior and stated that such conduct cannot continue indefinitely. The report’s conclusion that international law does not permit unilateral military action under counter-terrorism pretexts was also noted.
President Zardari welcomed the UN experts’ examination of India’s regional actions and called for transparency and accountability. He supported the call for evidence, compensation for civilian losses, and adherence to treaty obligations, including dialogue on Jammu and Kashmir.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace and international law, the President emphasized that Pakistan will continue using diplomatic and legal means to protect its sovereignty and promote regional stability.