Islamabad, May 11 — Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has lauded the country’s political leadership, including both coalition partners and the opposition, for displaying "exemplary" unity and integrity during the recent military standoff with India. Speaking in a televised address late Saturday night, Sharif emphasized that peaceful negotiations are the way forward for resolving enduring bilateral disputes, including water sharing and the Kashmir issue.
His address followed the announcement that India and Pakistan had reached an understanding to halt all military actions — on land, air, and sea — with immediate effect, marking the end of four tense days marked by cross-border drone and missile strikes.
Sharif stated that Pakistan welcomed the ceasefire understanding as a positive step in the interest of regional peace. He also acknowledged the role of international diplomacy in easing the hostilities, expressing gratitude to friendly nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and the United Nations. He particularly thanked UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his involvement.
Highlighting the unwavering support of China, Sharif called it Pakistan’s "time-tested and trustworthy friend" that stood firmly by the nation "in this hour of turbulence".
Describing the ceasefire as a national achievement, Sharif said the Pakistani military’s Operation Bunyan-un-Marsooshad been successful and that the armed forces responded to India's actions in a "professional manner". He hailed the nation and its military as brave and composed, asserting that their conduct demonstrated wisdom and resilience.
Sharif also addressed the Pahalgam attack, stating that Pakistan had offered to participate in a "credible and transparent" investigation, an offer that was not accepted by New Delhi.
Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister congratulated the Pakistani people and armed forces, calling the outcome a “victory” for the country.