IWT, Kashmir, terrorism key issues for any future talks with India: Asif

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Saturday that for Pakistan, Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), and terrorism remain major issues that may come under discussion in any future dialogue with India.

Speaking to Geo News, he acknowledged the ceasefire as a positive step but cautioned against premature optimism. If the ceasefire helps pave the way towards peace, it would be a welcome development, he said, adding that however, it is too early to say anything with certainty. “As time passes, opportunities for peace may emerge,” he said.

“We hope India, and particularly its leadership, will one day prioritise the region’s future over party interests,” the minister said, adding that peaceful coexistence based on equality is key to South Asia’s progress.”

Asif said India was gripped by the hubris of power, but its arrogance collapsed in the face of Pakistan’s composed and strategic response.He said India expected a weak response, but its strategy crumbled before Pakistan’s calm and calculated response. “The myth of Indian’s arrogance has vanished into thin air,” he added.

He stated that India aimed to set a lower bar in bilateral relations, hoping to push Pakistan into a weak, vessel-like state. But their strategic ambitions have turned to dust, he asserted.

He emphasised that Pakistan maintained restraint throughout the episode, kept its threshold low, and prioritised peace without compromising its presence or security. “India’s military and diplomatic assessments have been proven wrong. Their narrative has found no acceptance globally due to their failure to provide evidence or allow impartial investigation,” he said.

He praised the diplomatic support shown by key allies and friendly nations including China, Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Gulf partners. He further said India failed to secure backing from a single country.