Pak, India should sit down at the table like peaceful neighbours and settle their outstanding issues, says Pak PM Shehbaz

Pak, India should sit down at the table like peaceful neighbours and settle their outstanding issues, says Pak PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday night called for renewed dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve long-standing issues, including the Kashmir dispute. His remarks came as the country observed 'Youm-e-Tashakur' (Day of Thanks) to honour its armed forces following a recent military standoff with India.

Speaking at a special 'Youm-e-Tashakur' event at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, Shehbaz said that India and Pakistan fought three wars and got nothing.

"The lesson is to sit down as peaceful neighbours and settle all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. Without resolution of our issues, we cannot have peace in this part of the world,” Shehbaz said.

India, however, maintains that talks with Pakistan will only take place regarding the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the issue of cross-border terrorism. Despite this, Shehbaz noted, “"If peace comes, we can also cooperate in counterterrorism.”

His comments came days after India launched targeted strikes under Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people. In response, Pakistan attempted strikes on Indian military installations between May 8 and 10. Indian forces countered with a series of retaliatory attacks on Pakistani military targets.

After four days of intense hostilities, both sides agreed to de-escalate on May 10, reaching a ceasefire. Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked all friendly countries for their role in arranging the ceasefire, and especially thanked US President Donald Trump for playing "an active role".

State-run Radio Pakistan reported that the day dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered. Rallies were also held across the country to express solidarity with the armed forces.

Earlier in the day, Shehbaz raised the national flag at the Prime Minister’s residence in Islamabad. Reflecting on the recent conflict, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace but stressed that the country reserves the right to defend itself. “Pakistan is a peaceful nation, but we will respond firmly when challenged,” he said, praising the armed forces’ actions during the standoff as a "golden chapter" in the nation's military history.

Shehbaz also visited the residence of Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf, who was killed in attacks by India, state-run Associated Press of Pakistan reported. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Army chief Asim Munir and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accompanied the prime minister.

The prime minister extended his condolences to the family members of the squadron leader.

He also visited Rawalpindi’s Combined Military Hospital to enquire about the health of soldiers and civilians injured in the recent Indian attacks.

"The way the Pakistan armed forces and the entire nation fought this war is unparalleled,” he said.

It was for the second time that 'Youm-e-Tashakkur' was observed after a ceasefire was announced. It was first observed on Sunday, when rallies were taken out to pay tribute to the armed forces for their response to India.

"Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core national interests,” President Asif Ali Zardari said.