Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan has the absolute right to take measures for its defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, in a meeting with Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir, state broadcaster PTV News reports.

At their meeting in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz said that Pakistan is fully committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The prime minister also appreciated the Saudi government’s diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the region and establish regional peace.

The Saudi minister of state expressed heartfelt condolences over the loss of precious Pakistani lives and said that Saudi Arabia is deeply concerned about the current situation in South Asia.

He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s call for de-escalation and the resolution of all outstanding disputes between Pakistan and India in accordance with international laws and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The prime minister emphasised that India’s unprovoked and unjustified aggression is a blatant violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, posing a serious threat to regional peace and stability.

He strongly condemned India’s missile and drone attacks against Pakistan, which resulted in the martyrdom of several innocent civilians, including women and children, and caused damage to property.