Siddiqui says India suffered significant diplomatic, political defeat

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mofa) for its pivotal role during the recent Pakistan-India conflict, recognising its diplomatic efforts in presenting Pakistan’s stance effectively on the global stage.

An in-camera meeting of the committee, chaired by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, was held at the Parliament House to deliberate on the conflict and assess Mofa’s diplomatic engagements. The session began with Senator Siddiqui lauding the Foreign Office for its “exceptionally tremendous” performance, acknowledging its tireless, round-the-clock efforts in ensuring Pakistan’s narrative reached the international community.

On behalf of the committee, Senator Siddiqui praised the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, and all Mofa officers for their dedication in promoting Pakistan’s position and handling the crisis with strategic brilliance.

The committee unanimously endorsed the chairman’s remarks, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the conflict, which was managed under a democratically elected civilian government. “This was the first war in Pakistan’s history where political leadership was at the forefront,” Senator Siddiqui noted. “The Parliament, civil government, and all institutions, alongside Pakistan’s valiant armed forces, played a sustained and integral role, presenting a democratic face to the world.”

Mofa officials provided a comprehensive briefing on the diplomatic strategy employed during the conflict, including engagements with global stakeholders and friendly nations. The session also discussed mediation efforts proposed by the US president and deliberated on the Indus Waters Treaty. Senators actively participated, posing critical questions and offering their perspectives.

Concluding the session, Senator Siddiqui remarked that India had not only faced military setbacks but also suffered a significant diplomatic and political defeat. “India’s aggressive designs have been fully exposed to the world,” he stated, emphasising the exemplary civil-military coordination that secured Pakistan’s strategic victory.

The meeting was attended by senators Sherry Rehman, Musadik Masood Malik, Syed Ali Zafar, Rubina Khalid, and Zeeshan Khanzada. Also present were Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, DG (South Asia) Ilyas Mehmood Nizami, Mofa Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan and other senior officials.