ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office of Pakistan issued a stern warning to India as politicians from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, intensified anti-Pakistan sentiments during their election campaign.
Amidst the ongoing general elections spanning six weeks, the BJP and PM Modi have resorted to “bravado” and “jingoism” to sway voters, prompting Islamabad to strongly react to the provocative rhetoric.
FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch cautioned India against any misadventure towards Pakistan, emphasizing the country’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The surge in anti-Pakistan rhetoric from Indian leaders during the Lok Sabha election campaign has been vehemently rejected by Pakistan. The FO spokesperson condemned these statements as irresponsible and reflective of a reckless mindset.
Pakistan expressed regret over India’s fixation on Pakistan and its attempts to exploit hyper-nationalism for electoral gains. The FO reiterated the importance of peaceful resolution of disputes, including the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), through dialogue and cooperation.
Regarding inflammatory rhetoric about Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan emphasized historical facts and legal principles, asserting that no amount of Indian statements can alter the internationally recognized status of IIOJK.
The FO urged Indian politicians to refrain from dragging Pakistan into their domestic politics and handle strategic matters with caution. It also called upon the international community to take note of India’s belligerent rhetoric, which poses a threat to regional peace and stability.