DEFENCE DAY – TRIBUTE TO HEROS AND MARTYRS

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE

PRESS RELEASE

Paris September 5, 2024

Subject: ​DEFENCE DAY – TRIBUTE TO HEROS AND MARTYRS
Pakistan Embassy, Paris hosted a reception to commemorate the Defence and Martyrs Day of Pakistan. The event was attended by members of Parliament, Ambassadors, Defence Attaches, dignitaries from French Armed Forces, Foreign Affairs, Defence industry and think tank representatives.
In his welcome remarks Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad thanked the guests for joining noting that their presence marked the bonds of friendship and cooperation with Pakistan.
He said that 6th September was a reminder of the exemplary courage, indomitable will, spirit of unmatched sacrifice and bravery of the armed forces and the people of Pakistan. All nations honour their heroes, and broadly speaking, such commemorations are homage to all those men and women who fight for the right cause and defend their homelands.
The Ambassador paid tributes to Defence Forces and martyrs of Pakistan. He mentioned that Pakistan does not harbour any aggressive designs against any country, but we are today supremely placed to effectively defend against any foreign aggression at any level and scale.
He mentioned Pakistan’s contributions for regional and global peace and stability especially under UN peacekeeping missions. The Ambassador highlighted that Pakistan has also been a key partner in the international community’s collective efforts in counter terrorism.
He stressed upon the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict and instability. He advocated the benefits of dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law. Further, he mentioned that pacific settlement of disputes in accordance with the UN Charter was a corner stone of Pakistan’s foreign policy. A just and peaceful solution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and the wishes of the Kashmiri people was imperative for durable peace and stability in South Asia, and for unlocking the full development potential of our region.
Pakistan expected the responsible members of the international community to play their due role in promoting a peaceful resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute in line with international legitimacy and UNSC resolutions, to enable the Kashmiri people exercise their inalienable right to self-determination that was promised to them by the UN and the international community. Similarly, Pakistan stood in complete solidarity with the Palestinian people in their just struggle against illegal occupation and for the right to self-determination and statehood. Speaking of Pak-France multi-faceted bilateral relationship, including longstanding defence ties, the Ambassador affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further advance this partnership for mutual benefit.
He underlined that Pakistan believed in forging partnerships and strengthening international cooperation across the board in pursuit of shared objectives of global peace, security and development. Pakistan shall continue to work together with all its friends and partners in this collective endeavour.
****

Independence Day Celebrations of Pakistan – 14 August 2024

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE

(INFORMATION SECTION)

PRESS RELEASE

Paris August 14, 2024

Subject: Independence Day Celebrations of Pakistan – 14 August 2024

On the occasion of the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad hoisted national flag to the tune of the national anthem at the Embassy of Pakistan, Paris and welcomed distinguished members of the community and French friends including large number of children.

The messages of the President, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

The Ambassador noted that 14th August was truly auspicious as it brought together the entire nation – in celebration, in paying homage to the Quaid-e-Azam and other leaders of the freedom movement, in remembrance of the supreme sacrifices of our forefathers, in honoring our heroes and drawing inspiration from our glorious past and the tremendous achievements over the decades. It was also a moment of reflection, of recognizing the challenges confronting us and seizing the immense opportunities presented to us.

Congratulating all on the Independence Day, the Ambassador said that we needed to draw guidance from the words of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah when he said “If we want to make this great State of Pakistan happy and prosperous, we should wholly and solely concentrate on the well-being of the people, especially of the masses and the poor”. All segments of the society in particular women and youth had an important role to play in national development. He emphasized the value of collective and individual responsibility in upholding and promoting the image and prestige of Pakistan. Praising national hero Arshad Nadeem’s Olympics gold medal, he noted how the accomplishment of an individual can bring immense joy and pride for the nation and project the country’s name world-wide.

Ambassador Ahmad emphasized that as we celebrate our freedom we must not forget our Kashmiri and Palestinian brothers and sisters, who have been struggling for over seven decades against illegal occupation and oppression. Pakistan reaffirmed its complete solidarity and full support for the people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine for their freedom and right to self-determination.

Further, the Ambassador highlighted that Pakistan enjoys close cooperative relations with France and looked forward to Pakistani diaspora for further cementing the bond of friendship between the two countries. “We are proud of your hard work and accomplishments and consider you as true Ambassadors of Pakistan”, he said.

The Ambassador noted that Pakistan stood tall and proud in the comity of nations with significant contributions towards shared objectives of global peace, security and development. We, all Pakistanis, inside or outside Pakistan are committed to serve our country to the fullest. May the national flag always fly high as a symbol of peace, prosperity and progress!

Later, the guests enjoyed tableau prepared by children, national songs and traditional Pakistani food.

 

****

 

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED AT EMBASSY

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE
(INFORMATION SECTION)

Subject: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED AT EMBASSY

PARIS: 12 March 2024

The Embassy of Pakistan, in collaboration with Zonta International Paris, co-organized a special event to celebrate the International Women’s Day. A large number of people from all walks of life including the diplomatic community, prominent representatives of the government, UNESCO, international institutions, civil society and media participated. Members of Pakistan-France Senate Friendship Group, Senator Vivette Lopez and Pierre Cuyper also attended.

In his remarks, Ambassador/Permanent Delegate Asim Iftikhar Ahmad highlighted the vital role of women in Pakistan’s independence and national development and paid tribute to their remarkable accomplishments in diverse fields over the years. Providing a historical perspective, the Ambassador also threw light on the central place of women in Islam that also provided an advanced and ahead of time framework of fundamental human rights including the rights of women. He also underlined Pakistan’s strong commitment to continue to strive for gender equality in all aspects of life and to provide an enabling environment for every girl and woman to achieve her full potential. Describing education as a key enabler, the Ambassador underscored the importance of partnerships including with the civil society to promote shared objectives. He also lauded the work of women officers spearheading various wings of the Embassy as a practical manifestation of government’s affirmative action for gender equality and representation.

A detailed presentation showcasing successful Pakistani girls and women from all walks of life throughout Pakistan’s history was also delivered during the event, reaffirming Pakistan’s solemn commitment to continue promoting women empowerment and gender equality across the board.

Assistant Director-General for Education Ms. Stefania Giannini highlighted the role of UNESCO in promoting SDG-4 Education globally. She also mentioned the Malala Funds in Trust Girls’ Right to Education Program as a successful role model of partnership between Pakistan, UNESCO other partners for promoting girls’ education in Pakistan and several other countries.

President of the Zonta Club presented the vision and activities of the organization for education, visibility and promotion of women and girls.
Recorded video messages from Ms. Sania Nishtar, CEO, GAVI and Ms. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also played.

Three outstanding Pakistani-French women Tabassum Saleem (civil service), Naghmana Kiani (social service) and Shaaz Malik (poet/writer) also shared their views on the occasion.

The event was part of the Embassy’s program to mark the International Women’s Day coinciding with the Pakistan Day celebrations in March and was an excellent opportunity to inform the French audience of the tremendous achievements and important role of women in Pakistan.

****

Pakistan Embassy in France Hosts Christmas Dinner

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE
(INFORMATION SECTION)

PRESS RELEASE

PARIS: December 22, 2023

A Christmas Dinner was hosted at the Embassy of Pakistan, Paris on December 21, 2023. Ambassador of Pakistan Asim Iftikhar Ahmad welcomed the guests and thanked them for being part of the celebrations. He said that this coming together of people from different faiths, nationalities and backgrounds, is what makes this celebration of Xmas special.

He said that Christmas is a time of happiness, celebration, sharing and remembrance. More importantly it reminds us of the message of Jesus Christ – message of peace tolerance and compassion for everyone around the world. He added that by celebrating DIVERSITY – we promote harmony and tolerance – as this is a mosaic of our modern states, our societies and the global community.

The Ambassador further highlighted that it is the same message of peace common to all divine religions including that of Islam and our Prophet Muhammad’s (p.b.u.h.) universal teachings reflect the same. It goes without saying how important and relevant this universal message remains for the entire humanity today, he added. We are committed to promote harmony, ensure fundamental rights and equal opportunities for all Pakistanis as equal citizens as guided by the vision of our Founding Father – Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The Ambassador appreciated the contributions of the Pakistani Christian community both in Pakistan and abroad where they are the key pillars of Pakistani diaspora. The Christian community remain proud contributors towards the establishment of Pakistan going back to 1947 – and decades of nation building ever since. They are and will always remain an essential and integral part of our multicultural society.

While outlining the active role of Pakistan at the international level the Ambassador duly recognized many friends who have over the years worked with Pakistan in building bridges across nations and civilizations.

The Ambassador also shared that the UN General Assembly had recently unanimously adopted the traditional resolution jointly presented by the Philippines and Pakistan on the “Promotion of inter-religious and inter cultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace”.

The Christmas Dinner was attended by large number of French friends and families, Pakistani Christian community, diplomats and people from all walks of life. Guests were treated with traditional Pakistani food while goody bags brought more smiles to the children.

The officers and staff of the Embassy also attended the event marking Christmas celebrations.

****

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Embassy of Pakistan

Paris, France

***

Press Release

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Pakistan was re-elected today to the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the term 2023-2027. Pakistan wishes to thank Member States for their support and the confidence reposed in its candidature. It is a matter of immense pride to have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve on the Executive Board. Pakistan will avail this opportunity to continue to contribute to the policymaking, development of norms, advancement of global priorities, and effective oversight of programs and activities of the Organization.

Pakistan values the ever-relevant and crucial role of UNESCO as a universal forum to promote the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind and advancement of global peace and development through education, science, culture and communication. As an ardent advocate of multilateralism, Pakistan will endeavour to strengthen our collective efforts at UNESCO, including by building bridges across regions and forging consensus on key issues for tangible outcomes and impact on ground. As a partner, Pakistan will continue to extend proactive support for the SIDS Operational Strategy and Global Priorities – Africa and Gender Equality.

Pakistan’s re-election is a testament to its longstanding support for and constructive role at the United Nations. Pakistan will continue to work with all Member States to strengthen UNESCO’s mandate and advance our shared goals.

Paris, 15 November 2023

******

 

 

 

 

Independence Day Celebrations

Embassy of Pakistan

France

*****

Press Release

Independence Day Celebrations

Paris: August 14, 2023

An impressive flag hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan marked the 76th Independence Day celebrations in France. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad raised the Pakistani flag to the tune of the national anthem in the presence of distinguished members of the community, Embassy officials, friends and families including a large number of children. The messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

Congratulating the compatriots on the Independence Day, the Ambassador noted that such occasions were not only joyous but momentous as they provided the link between the past, present and the future, and thus an opportunity for collective national reflection.

It was the visionary leadership and indefatigable efforts of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that led to an independent homeland for Muslims, underlined the Ambassador while paying tribute to the Father of the Nation and other leaders of the freedom movement. He also paid homage to the immense sacrifice of our forefathers for the creation of Pakistan. That spirit of sacrifice continues to inspire the succeeding generations who have made the defence and security of Pakistan impregnable and one of the best in the world.

Appreciating the tremendous capabilities and hard work of Pakistani men and women, the Ambassador recalled how in the face of enormous challenges and lack of resources, the young nation had made great strides in all fields.

Also at the international stage, Pakistan held an important place among the comity of nations, playing its due role for the promotion of regional and global peace and development. Pakistan enjoys close cooperative relations with a wide circle of friends and partners around the world, including France.

Ambassador Ahmad emphasized that while celebrating independence, it was also our duty to reiterate our firm commitment and all out support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters to realize their right to self-determination and freedom from illegal Indian occupation.

Going forward, the entire nation must work together – in unity, faith and discipline – for a stronger, prosperous and democratic Pakistan for our future generations to fully realize their aspirations. Pakistan was a gift of Allah for which we are thankful, and would safeguard this trust with utmost responsibility, stressed the Ambassador.

In this regard the Ambassador lauded the role and services of overseas Pakistanis and hoped that the dynamic Pakistani community in France will continue to contribute to strengthening Pak-France relations and bring more laurels to their motherland. He also praised the role of women and youth in national development.

The colourful Independence Day program included national songs, speeches and captivating tableau by children. The guests also enjoyed national songs and traditional Pakistani food.

The Ambassador also presented letters of appreciation to Pakistani poets and authors based in France in recognition of their recently published works in Urdu and Punjabi.

****

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Embassy of Pakistan

(France)

****

Press Release

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Paris; August 5, 2023

Embassy of Pakistan organized a seminar here today to observe Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir.

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored the significance of this day, commemorating four years since August 5, 2019, when India took illegal and unilateral actions, in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and international law, with the aim of altering the internationally recognized disputed status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Pakistan and the international community joined the Kashmiris in raising a unified voice and unequivocally rejecting India’s attempts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory in contravention of the UNSC resolutions and the 4th Geneva Convention. The Ambassador emphasized that India’s sinister designs and perpetration of grave human rights violations to suppress the spirit of the Kashmiri people and undermine their legitimate right to self-determination had utterly failed.

Paying tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people, the Ambassador admired their unwavering commitment and strong determination to continue their rightful struggle for self-determination and freedom from Indian occupation. He lauded that despite India’s relentless repression, including extra-judicial killings, severe restrictions on freedom of speech, fake encounters, cordon-and-search operations, custodial torture and deaths, enforced disappearances, incarceration of Kashmiri leaders and youth, use of pellet guns, destruction of homes, and other oppressive methods, the brave and resilient Kashmiri people remained resolute.

The Ambassador deliberated on the political, legal, peace and security, humanitarian and human rights dimensions of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, that remains on the agenda of the UN Security Council since 1948. It was high time for the international community to play its role in resolving the dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. The Government and people of Pakistan stand in complete solidarity with the people of IIOJK and will continue to extend all possible support for the realization of their right to self-determination. He emphasized that India must stop human rights violations and reverse the illegal actions of August 5, 2019 and all subsequent measures to create an environment for meaningful dialogues to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

During the seminar, various speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s unlawful actions and the increased and widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in IIOJK, particularly since August 5, 2019, and expressed their unwavering support and solidarity to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle.

A compelling documentary highlighting the atrocities committed in IIOJK was screened and messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out, affirming Pakistan’s support for the Kashmir cause.

As part of the commemoration, an exhibition of photographs and illustrations was organized at the chancery, that showcased powerful images depicting the Kashmiri struggle against the Indian military siege and the atrocities committed in IIOJK.

Earlier a webinar was held in connection with Youm-e-Istehsal in which Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also participated. Speakers condemned India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019 and  grave violations of HR in IIOJK. They expressed unanimous support for Kashmiris right to self-determination in accordance with UNSC resolutions.

Subsequently, members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities organized a protest rally near the iconic Eiffel Tower. During the rally, speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s human rights violations and illegal actions in IIOJK and called for resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with the resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people.

The protestors fervently raised slogans against the forced occupation of IIOJK, while brandishing placards, banners, and Kashmiri flags, symbolizing their unwavering support for the Kashmir cause.

————

Message by Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Kashmir Solidarity Day (5 February 2023)

Message by Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Kashmir Solidarity Day (5 February 2023)

Every year, on the fifth of February, the people of Pakistan reaffirm their solidarity with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters. On this Kashmir Solidarity Day, we renew our commitment of our unflinching support to them in their just struggle for inalienable right to self-determination.

The Jammu and Kashmir dispute is one of the oldest, unresolved items on the agenda of the United Nations. Over the last seventy-five years, India has continued its illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and suppressed its people. Thousands of Kashmiris have sacrificed their lives and suffered countless atrocities at the hands of the Indian Occupation Forces. The already bad situation took a turn for the worst following India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019. These illegal and unilateral steps have been rejected by Pakistan and the Kashmiris.

The human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) remains a source of grave concern to Pakistan and the rest of the world. India has brazenly targeted Kashmiri men, women and children through curfews, blackouts, arbitrary detention, imprisonment, and denial of basic rights. The popular Kashmiri political leadership has been illegally detained or deliberately victimized through fictitious cases. The media has been silenced through coercion and religious scholars have been arrested. Draconian laws have been enacted that deny the fundamental freedoms of the Kashmiri people.

India has also intensified its campaign to bring about demographic changes in IIOJK, so as to convert the Kashmiris into a minority in their own land. These actions are in violation of UNSC resolutions and international law, including the 4th Geneva Convention.

India is mistaken if it believes it can crush the iron will of the Kashmiri people. No amount of state terrorism, unleashed by Indian Occupation Forces, can break the will of the Kashmiris or undermine their legitimate struggle.

We urge India to honour its commitments made to Pakistan, the UN and, above all, to the Kashmiri people.

On behalf of the entire Pakistani nation, I want to assure our Kashmiri brothers and sisters that we stand shoulder to shoulder with them. We will continue to lend moral, diplomatic and political support to their just cause, until they attain freedom from Indian oppression. Pakistan will also continue to raise its voice at all international platforms and highlight India’s barbaric actions in IIOJK.

****

Mehfil-e-Milad at Pakistan Embassy Paris

Embassy of Pakistan (France)

*****

Press Release

Mehfil-e-Milad at Pakistan Embassy Paris

October 18, 2021

 

Mehfil-e-Milad was held at Pakistan Embassy here this evening to celebrate Eid Milad-un-Nabi.

Members of the Pakistani community and officials of the Embassy participated in the event.

Community members including poets and children recited Naats while speakers highlighted various aspects of the life of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.), emphasizing that by embracing his teachings, humanity  can achieve salvation.

Speaking on the occasion, Charge d’Affaires Mr. Muhammad Amjad Aziz Qazi said that the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) was a messenger of peace and his life provided an excellent model for bringing about coexistence and harmony among various communities as well as peace and stability in today’s world.

 

Imran Khan, Premier ministre du Pakistan, appelle les États-Unis à « se ressaisir » pour éviter un effondrement en Afghanistan

Middle East Eye (11 October 2021)

Le Premier ministre du Pakistan, Imran Khan, a appelé ce lundi les États-Unis à « se ressaisir » pour éviter que l’Afghanistan ne redevienne un refuge pour les terroristes.

« Nous traversons un moment critique et les États-Unis doivent se ressaisir ; les Américains sont en état de choc, » a-t-il déclaré dans une interview accordée à Middle East Eye, un site d’information en ligne basé à Londres.

Évoquant le sacrifice de dizaines de milliers de Pakistanais après que le pays a rejoint la guerre contre le terrorisme menée par les États-Unis, Imran Khan a ajouté qu’il était d’un intérêt vital pour le Pakistan que Washington se montre à la hauteur, par crainte de payer un tribut bien plus lourd.

« Les Américains pensaient l’avenir en termes de démocratie, de “nation building” ou de femmes libérées, et, du jour au lendemain, le drapeau taliban a été hissé dans Kaboul. La colère est grande, tout comme le choc et la surprise. À moins que les États-Unis ne prennent les devants, nous craignons que le chaos règne à nouveau en Afghanistan et qu’il se répercute le plus durement chez nous. »

Il estime qu’après deux décennies de conflit, les États-Unis n’ont pas d’autre choix que d’appuyer un gouvernement stable en Afghanistan, aux mains des talibans, car eux seuls sont en mesure de combattre l’État islamique dans la région — et de bloquer les tenants de la ligne dure dans leurs rangs.

Le Premier ministre pakistanais a réitéré son appel à la communauté internationale pour qu’elle s’engage auprès de l’Afghanistan. Tourner le dos au peuple afghan serait un désastre, cela reviendrait à renforcer les extrémistes et à ramener le pays vingt ans en arrière.

Sanctionner les talibans mènerait selon lui à une catastrophe humanitaire en Afghanistan alors que la moitié de la population vit déjà sous le seuil de pauvreté et que 75 % du budget dépend de l’aide internationale.

« Si nous ne faisons rien, je crains que 1989, l’année où les Soviétiques et les Américains sont partis et où plus de 200 000 Afghans sont morts dans le chaos, ne se répète sous nos yeux, » a-t-il déclaré, faisant référence à la guerre civile qui a ravagé le pays après le retrait des troupes soviétiques.

Imran Khan a indiqué à Middle East Eye qu’en 2008, il avait averti Joe Biden, John Kerry et Harry Reid — tous trois sénateurs à l’époque — que la voie militaire ne permettrait pas de sortir du bourbier afghan qu’ils avaient créé. Il n’a pas été écouté.

Deux ans plus tard, le général pakistanais Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, alors chef d’état-major des armées, a fait part du même message au président américain Barack Obama.

« Nous sommes soulagés, parce que nous nous attendions à un bain de sang. Nous avons finalement assisté à un transfert pacifique du pouvoir. En revanche, nous avons eu le sentiment d’être blâmés pour cela. Trois cent mille soldats [de l’armée afghane] ont baissé les armes, nous n’y sommes pour rien. »

À la question de savoir si le gouvernement formé par les talibans était inclusif, Imran Khan a concédé qu’il ne l’était pas, mais il a précisé qu’il s’agissait d’un gouvernement de transition.

Il a déclaré que le Pakistan travaillait avec les États voisins, notamment le Tadjikistan et l’Ouzbékistan, au vu des importantes minorités ethniques ouzbèkes et tadjikes vivant en Afghanistan, afin d’encourager les talibans à former un gouvernement plus représentatif.

« Ils ont besoin d’un gouvernement inclusif, reflétant la diversité de la société afghane. »

Imran Khan a déclaré qu’il fallait donner du temps aux talibans : « Ils ont fait des promesses et se retrouvent à court d’options. Qu’allons-nous faire d’autre si nous les sanctionnons ? Le meilleur moyen est de les inciter à tenir parole. »

« Si nous les forçons, connaissant leur tempérament, ils résisteront. Ce serait contre-productif. »

Il a expliqué qu’il y avait différents courants au sein du mouvement taliban et un manque de leadership clair sur certaines questions.

Il a déclaré que le Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) était composé de 50 groupuscules et qu’il tentait de réconcilier ceux qui se montraient prêts à discuter.

« Nous essayons maintenant de parler avec eux, car nous sommes en position de force. J’ai toujours eu l’intime conviction que tous les insurgés finissent par consentir au dialogue, comme l’IRA [Armée républicaine irlandaise] par exemple, » a-t-il déclaré en faisant référence à l’accord de paix conclu en Irlande du Nord.

Imran Khan a ajouté que le gouvernement taliban à Kaboul avait assuré à Islamabad que le TTP ne serait pas autorisé à lancer des attaques contre le Pakistan depuis le sol afghan.

Il a accusé les services de renseignement indiens d’avoir apporté un appui aux attaques survenues sous l’ancien gouvernement de Kaboul.

« Nous devons maintenant parler à ceux avec qui nous pouvons trouver un terrain d’entente afin de les [persuader] de rendre leurs armes et de réintégrer la vie civile. »

Le Premier ministre du Pakistan a condamné l’utilisation répétée de drones par les États-Unis en Afghanistan.

« C’est la façon la plus insensée de lutter contre le terrorisme : attaquer une hutte de terre dans un village avec un drone et s’attendre à ce qu’il n’y ait pas de victimes collatérales. D’autant que bien souvent, les drones ont visé les mauvaises personnes. »

À la question de savoir si le Pakistan autoriserait les États-Unis à lancer des frappes visant l’EI en Afghanistan depuis le Pakistan, Imran Khan a répondu : « Une base ici leur serait inutile, car nous n’avons pas besoin de participer à un nouveau conflit. »

« Aucun pays n’a payé un aussi lourd tribut. Quatre-vingt mille Pakistanais sont morts. L’économie a été durement touchée. Nous avons accusé 150 milliards de dollars de pertes. On a dit que c’était l’endroit le plus dangereux de la planète. Trois millions et demi de personnes ont été déplacées à l’intérieur du pays. »

Imran Khan a estimé qu’il était encore trop tôt pour dire quel effet le retrait américain aurait sur la région.

Il a néanmoins déclaré que la Chine, puissance émergente, était la mieux placée pour combler le vide. Par ailleurs, elle est venue en aide au Pakistan dans les jours les plus sombres de son histoire récente.

« Quel pays nous a prêté main forte, alors que nous étions proches de la banqueroute ? La Chine. On se souvient toujours de ceux qui nous aident à surmonter les moments difficiles. »

Discutant de la situation des droits de l’homme au Jammu-et-Cachemire illégalement occupé par l’Inde (IIOJK), le Premier ministre du Pakistan a déclaré que l’Inde jouissait de la même impunité pour ses tentatives d’altération de l’équilibre démographique du Cachemire que celle dont profite Israël dans les territoires palestiniens occupés.

Il a accusé Narendra Modi de copier la stratégie d’Israël en permettant aux colons d’acquérir des terres dans le territoire contesté.

Qualifiant l’IIOJK de prison à ciel ouvert, il a déclaré que l’Inde violait la Convention de Genève en modifiant la Constitution indienne pour mettre fin à l’autonomie du Cachemire.

Le Premier ministre du Pakistan a estimé que l’Inde n’avait pas rencontré de contestation plus vigoureuse sur la scène internationale dans la mesure où ses alliés occidentaux la considéraient comme un rempart contre la Chine.

Il a ajouté que l’Inde avait également bénéficié d’une relation stratégique et militaire approfondie avec Israël, forgée par la visite de Narendra Modi dans le pays en juillet 2017, suivie par celle du Premier ministre israélien de l’époque, Benyamin Netanyahou, en Inde l’année suivante.

Interrogé sur l’instabilité de la situation actuelle, Imran Khan a répondu : « Si vous observez les points de tension, à l’heure actuelle, le principal point de tension nucléaire est probablement formé par le Pakistan et l’Inde, car c’est le seul endroit où l’on se retrouve avec deux pays dotés de l’arme nucléaire qui ont connu trois guerres avant de l’acquérir. »

*****