INTERNATIONAL: Indo-Pak Intelligence Cooperation Can Reduce Terror Threat, Says Bilawal Bhutto at UN
Intelligence Collaboration Key to Peace in South Asia
Pakistan People’s Party Chairman and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for strategic cooperation between Indian and Pakistani intelligence agencies. Speaking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, Bilawal stated that if both nations work together, terrorism in South Asia could be significantly curtailed.
Bilawal is currently leading a Pakistani diplomatic team that is lobbying for international support following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. He emphasized that joint efforts in intelligence sharing would mark a crucial step toward regional security.
Diplomatic Tour Highlights Post-Pahalgam Strategy
The Pakistani delegation is visiting the United States to raise awareness about the implications of the Pahalgam incident. At a press interaction at the UN, Bilawal highlighted the need for global mediation to ease Indo-Pak hostilities and prevent further escalation.
He acknowledged the role of U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in facilitating the latest ceasefire, crediting their intervention for averting immediate conflict between the two nations.
Ceasefire May Not Ensure Long-Term Stability
Despite the ceasefire, Bilawal warned that the likelihood of renewed hostilities between India and Pakistan remains high. He expressed concern that the ceasefire may not have reduced the threat of conflict but only postponed it temporarily.
He also criticized India for what he described as the “weaponization of river waters,” referring to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. According to him, such unilateral actions erode trust and escalate bilateral tensions.
Pakistan Open to Dialogue on Counterterrorism
Bilawal reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace through diplomacy and consultation. He said Pakistan is ready for comprehensive talks with India on a wide range of issues, especially mutual cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
He urged India to embrace dialogue over confrontation, suggesting that only structured discussions and intelligence collaboration could lead to lasting peace in the subcontinent.
Ishaq Dar Downplays War Probability, Vows Defense
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar dismissed the likelihood of a full-scale war with India. However, he asserted that if a military conflict were to occur, Pakistan would respond with full capability.
Dar’s statement reflects Islamabad’s dual approach—downplaying the possibility of war while affirming national preparedness for any escalation.