Asif Responds to Fazl’s Criticism Over Tehran Meeting Absence

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif addressed remarks made by Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding his absence from a recent meeting in Tehran. The gathering, which included key officials from the Makkah Defence Alliance, aimed to enhance cooperation among member nations.

The Tehran meeting featured prominent figures such as Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The discussions focused on fostering dialogue to strengthen regional peace and security.

During a session in the National Assembly, Fazl criticized Asif’s non-participation, suggesting that a significant defence pact was being formed in Iran while the defence minister remained in Pakistan. His comments elicited laughter and applause from assembly members, highlighting the political tensions surrounding defence matters.

Asif’s response underscores the complexities of Pakistan’s defence diplomacy and the importance of regional alliances. The absence of the defence minister from such a pivotal meeting raises questions about Pakistan’s strategic positioning in regional security discussions. Future engagements and dialogues among these nations will be closely monitored as they could significantly impact Pakistan’s foreign relations and security policies.