Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has rejected the alleged negative campaign against him by India, saying that personal attacks and baseless allegations cannot change the facts nor can the international reputation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi be improved.
In his latest statement, the defence minister said that differences should be addressed at the political and diplomatic level, but India’s tradition of targeting personalities instead of creating a positive environment in the region creates more tension. He said that calling them mentally unstable or attacking their personalities cannot make the underlying issues go into the background.
Khawaja Asif claimed that after the recent tension with Pakistan, the Indian leadership is facing internal and external pressure, which is why various types of propaganda are being used to divert attention. He said that an organised campaign against him will not succeed in restoring Narendra Modi’s reputation because the international community is well aware of the ground realities.
The defence minister added that questions have been raised within India itself about some of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s international activities and awards. According to him, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also expressed reservations on this issue, while a report published in a British newspaper also raised questions about the transparency and credibility of these awards.
He said that artificial publicity or organised campaigns to create a positive impression abroad cannot yield lasting results. According to him, strengthening the credibility at the global level requires practical measures, effective policies and transparent governance, not propaganda campaigns against opponents.
The defence minister expressed his determination that Pakistan will continue to present its position to the international community in accordance with facts and diplomatic principles and will continue to respond to all kinds of misleading narratives in a responsible manner. He said that mutual respect, responsible behaviour and constructive diplomacy are indispensable for lasting peace and stability in the region.
