Karachi, June 27, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday accused India of increasingly resorting to “covert tactics and the use of proxies” to undermine peace and stability in Pakistan, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to defeating terrorism through the strength of its armed forces and pursuing peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
Addressing the passing-out parade at the Pakistan Naval Academy during a one-day visit to Karachi, the prime minister said Pakistan was facing complex security challenges arising from both external and internal threats.
“Our eastern neighbour, having suffered a humiliating defeat in the conflict in May last year, has increasingly resorted to covert tactics and the use of proxies in an attempt to undermine the hard-earned peace and stability in our country,” he said.
He added that Pakistan’s armed forces continued to confront what he described as foreign-sponsored terrorism emanating from the country’s western borders.
“The entire Pakistani nation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its brave armed forces. The entire country remains steadfast in its iron resolve to defeat the nefarious designs of our enemies, while continuing to pursue peace, dialogue and diplomacy to address all outstanding disputes,” he said.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the people of Gaza and Palestine, saying the country remained committed to advocating their causes at international forums.
Pakistan’s role in regional peace
Referring to recent diplomatic developments, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had emerged as a “peacemaker in the comity of nations.”
He said Pakistan’s mediation efforts, supported by friendly countries, had culminated in the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, describing it as a historic diplomatic achievement.
The prime minister paid tribute to Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, for his efforts in facilitating dialogue and promoting peace.
He also highlighted the recent visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan, describing it as a reflection of the close brotherly ties between the two countries and an acknowledgement of Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and stability.
Maritime security increasingly important
The prime minister said recent regional developments had underscored the growing importance of maritime security for the global economy and international trade.
“Today, the right of free passage and freedom of navigation are no longer luxuries but have become an absolute necessity for the entire world,” he said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the Pakistan Navy as a capable force able to safeguard national interests while contributing to peace and stability across the wider maritime region.
Address to graduating naval officers
Congratulating the graduating cadets, Prime Minister Shehbaz said they were joining the Pakistan Navy at a time of profound technological transformation and unprecedented opportunities.
He expressed particular pleasure at the participation of cadets from Türkiye, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Iraq, Sri Lanka, and Djibouti, saying the training they had received at the Pakistan Naval Academy would contribute significantly to the operational effectiveness of their respective navies.
The premier noted that the Pakistan Navy was embracing advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and unmanned systems, to meet evolving maritime challenges.
Urging the newly commissioned officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, he said they should remain committed to the values of courage, discipline, integrity and loyalty.
“The rank you wear on your shoulders today carries immense responsibility. Calm waters do not test a sailor, nor do fair winds define a captain. It is the rough seas and strong winds that test one’s mettle,” he remarked.
Earlier, upon his arrival in Karachi, the prime minister was received by Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Ataullah Tarrar accompanied him during the visit.
