SHANGRI-LA: General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCS), stated that the lack of an effective crisis management framework has prevented global powers from responding swiftly to the Pakistan-India conflict. He made these remarks during his address at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue 2025.
General Mirza emphasized that dialogue remains essential for regional security in South Asia, and that lasting peace hinges on resolving the Kashmir issue in line with United Nations resolutions. “Preventing conflict is more effective than reacting after a crisis,” he noted, warning of the potential threat of nuclear confrontation in the region.
He pointed out that the Asia-Pacific region has now become the center of global strategic focus. “Pakistan seeks lasting peace with India based on mutual respect, dignity, and equality,” he said, stressing that the core issue driving tensions between the two countries is Kashmir, and a resolution is inevitable.
The CJCS underscored the importance of revitalizing existing regional and international dialogue mechanisms. “Pakistan advocates for a global system based on principles of sovereignty and mutual restraint,” he said, warning that the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions, exacerbated by the Pahalgam incident, are jeopardizing the region’s development.
Addressing India’s recent actions, General Mirza condemned the unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), calling it a clear breach of international law. “Weaponizing water is unacceptable,” he said, adding that any attempt to block or divert Pakistan’s water would be considered an act of war, as stated by the National Security Committee.
He further accused India of violating the UN Charter by targeting civilians and religious sites, and reiterated Pakistan’s calls for the restoration of formal dialogue, both bilaterally and through international mediation.
“No conflict can be resolved without a foundation of equality, trust, and empathy,” General Mirza concluded.
