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In an exclusive interview with CGTV, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry offered a balanced yet firm response to recent regional tensions, asserting that Pakistan’s focus remains on peace, stability, and progress—not escalation or aggression.
Speaking just days after the May 11 ceasefire that paused weeks of military hostility with India, the ISPR Chief clarified that the Pakistani nation is not indulging in triumphalism. “We are celebrating peace, not victory,” he said, reflecting the national spirit of humility and faith.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Peace Amid Escalation
Tensions between Pakistan and India flared following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians. India quickly blamed Pakistan, although it did not publicly release any supporting evidence.
The diplomatic fallout was swift. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Wagah-Attari border, and curtailed diplomatic ties. Pakistan responded with reciprocal actions, including halting trade and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft.
What followed was a dangerous cycle of missile strikes, drone attacks, and aerial skirmishes, threatening to plunge the region into full-scale conflict. A ceasefire was finally announced on May 11, with both sides offering differing versions of how the truce was reached. Pakistan credited diplomatic efforts by the US, China, and Gulf nations, while India emphasized bilateral military-level negotiations.
Faith, Resolve, and National Defense
Responding to questions about Pakistan’s readiness for further escalation, Lt Gen Chaudhry affirmed the nation’s deep-seated resilience. “Pakistan relies first and foremost on Allah—and then on ourselves,” he stated, encapsulating a sentiment of spiritual confidence paired with strategic preparedness.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, and its resolve has been proven repeatedly. “We have never bowed before, and we never will,” the General emphasized. “The desire for martyrdom in our armed forces is greater than life.”
Condemning False Allegations and Aggression
Lt Gen Chaudhry criticized the ongoing misinformation and baseless accusations leveled by Indian officials in the wake of the Pahalgam incident. He urged regional actors to focus instead on collective global challenges such as climate change, overpopulation, and disinformation, rather than trying to assert dominance through unprovoked aggression.
He called for international accountability, stressing that mature nations do not stoke conflicts but work collaboratively toward regional peace.
Pakistan-China Strategic Bond: A Shared Vision for Peace
A significant part of the interview focused on Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China, especially in the face of regional instability and internal security threats. General Chaudhry reaffirmed both countries’ shared values: peace, development, economic cooperation, and a united stance against terrorism.
He praised China’s rapid progress, especially in poverty alleviation and infrastructure development, describing it as a global model. “China is a mature and responsible player,” he said. “Its unprecedented development stands as a remarkable example for the world.”
Pakistan, he added, aspires to a similar path. “We, too, want to move toward development and stability. We owe it to the people of Pakistan—to our future generations.”
Internal Security: Pakistan’s “Iron Wall” Against Terrorism
Addressing attacks on Chinese nationals working in Pakistan, including engineers on strategic development projects, the ISPR Chief labeled such incidents as targeted acts of terror designed to undermine national progress.
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He emphasized that Pakistan’s strength is not just military. “Our national power is an iron wall made up of our people, our armed forces, our diplomats, media, and especially our youth—all united against terrorism.”
He assured that comprehensive security protocols and community engagement would continue to ensure the safety of international partners and the success of key infrastructure initiatives.
A Message of Unity and Hope
Throughout the interview, Gen Chaudhry’s tone remained forward-looking and inclusive. He spoke of a united Pakistan that values its independence but seeks cooperation over conflict, and diplomacy over domination.
“There is humility in our people. We are down to earth and thankful to Allah,” he said. “Just watch how this country will now move forward rapidly toward the destination of development — InshaAllah.”
