LAHORE: Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has commended the country’s restrained and strategically mature response to the recent Indian provocations, despite Pakistan being a nuclear power.

Speaking at the International Solar Energy Exhibition here on Sunday, Gilani emphasised that Islamabad prioritised restraint and dialogue over confrontation.

He highlighted that Pakistan’s measured and thoughtful response has garnered international recognition for its wisdom.

He congratulated the nation for its unity, attributing the country’s “firm and peaceful strategy” to the leadership, armed forces, and the unity of all political stakeholders.

He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and dialogue, emphasising its consistent prioritisation of negotiations in resolving regional issues and its avoidance of actions that could destabilise the region.

Responding to a question about Balochistan, Gilani recalled that during his tenure as prime minister he presented evidence at international forums regarding India’s involvement in sponsoring terrorism and unrest in the troubled province.

He noted that even a Bollywood film, The Accidental Prime Minister, indirectly hinted at India’s policy contradictions, which led to Delhi’s willingness to engage in dialogue on core issues like Siachen, Kashmir, and interference in Balochistan.

Regarding the Pahalgam attack, the Senate chairman stated that India refused Pakistan’s call for a neutral and independent investigation into the incident.

He also criticised India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and blocking of river flows, deeming these actions as violations of international law.On domestic politics, Gilani stressed the importance of national unity, declining to comment on the PTI’s narrative due to ongoing sub judice cases. He urged a focus on uniting the nation and preventing political divisions.

Addressing the upcoming federal budget, he called for maximum relief for the people. He advocated for affordable energy solutions, suggesting alternatives like affordable solar panels, if subsidies are to be reduced, to ease the electricity bills burden on the consumers.

He also proposed cutting of unnecessary expenditures in other sectors to redirect resources toward public relief.

Regarding the PPP’s role in current political developments, Gilani stated that the party always prioritises the national interest.

He emphasised that current consultations, whether with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz or through coordination committees, are solely aimed at the country’s betterment.

Earlier, he visited various stalls at the exhibition, accompanied by Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mian Abuzar Shad, and commended the quality of Pakistani solar energy products and technologies.

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2025