ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Defence unanimously elected Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood as its Chairman here on Tuesday.
During a meeting of the Senate Defence Committee held on Tuesday to elect its Chairman, Senator Umar Farooq proposed Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood for the position, and Senator Sarmad Ali seconded the proposal. The committee members unanimously endorsed the proposal, electing Senator Talha Mahmood as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Defence. Talha’s unanimous election reflects the confidence and unity of the members, raising expectations for strengthened parliamentary oversight and further improvements in national defence and security matters.
Upon assuming the role, Senator Talha Mahmood said the Defence Committee is among the most significant committees of the Upper House. He pledged to work collectively with members to strengthen the country’s defence framework and enhance the national security apparatus. He paid tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan for their sacrifices in defending the nation, protecting its borders, and ensuring law and order.
Referring to recent Pakistan-India tensions, he noted that the courage and valour displayed by the armed forces had elevated Pakistan’s standing on the global stage. “National security must remain our foremost priority, and the entire nation must remain united on this issue. Supporting our military is a matter of national interest,” he emphasised. He also highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s recent agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing it as a landmark accord of great strategic value, deserving national pride.
Talha Mahmood further observed that there is room for improvement in institutions associated with the Ministry of Defence and assured that the committee would remain proactive in suggesting reforms and improvements. He stressed the need for joint efforts to ensure the country’s progress, prosperity, and stability.
Expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah, he termed chairing the Defence Committee is an honour and that he would dedicate all his energies and capabilities to the service of the nation. Addressing regional issues, Senator Talha Mahmood underscored the strategic importance of Chitral, lamenting its lack of basic infrastructure. He urged that Chitral’s airport be made fully operational without delay and that suspended flights be resumed to improve connectivity with the rest of the country. “Chitral holds immense geographical and strategic significance, as it borders four different regions. The committee will convene a special meeting to receive detailed briefings from relevant departments on this matter,” he announced. He also drew attention to the poor road conditions in Chitral, emphasising that development, prosperity, and the provision of facilities in the area are indispensable. Similarly, he called for greater attention to underdeveloped regions of Balochistan.
Senator Umar Farooq congratulated the newly elected Chairman and stressed that Parliament must be taken into confidence regarding the recent Saudi-Pakistan agreement, urging the Ministry of Defence to provide a comprehensive briefing. Senators Sarmad Ali and Abdul Quddus Bizenjo also felicitated the new chairman and assured him of their full cooperation.
