Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that if there had been stronger cooperation between key institutions in the past, Pakistan could have achieved several international honours much earlier.

Speaking in the National Assembly, he said the country is currently passing through a significant phase in its history, claiming that recent developments represent an important milestone not seen in decades.

“Historic Moment for Pakistan”

Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan has achieved in recent times what it could not accomplish in the past 78 years. He described the current period as a turning point for the country’s diplomatic and strategic progress.

He added that the results of what he called sustained efforts over the past three years have now begun to materialize.

“The biggest reward of three years of Pakistan’s efforts has been granted by Allah today,” he said.

Call for Institutional Coordination

The defence minister emphasized that improved coordination between what he referred to as “Rawalpindi and Islamabad” could have led to far better international outcomes for Pakistan in the past.

He suggested that stronger alignment between key decision-making institutions might have resulted in multiple global recognitions or achievements earlier.

“If such cooperation had existed before, Pakistan would have received many international awards,” he remarked.

Remarks on Iran and Regional Situation

Khawaja Asif also congratulated Iran, praising its leadership for representing the Iranian people effectively under challenging circumstances.

He said that the difficulties faced by Iran over recent decades would now begin to ease, referring to broader regional developments and diplomatic shifts.

He expressed hope that longstanding grievances and injustices related to Iran would come to an end.

Context of Regional Developments

His remarks come amid ongoing reports of major diplomatic activity involving Iran and the United States, including claims of a potential agreement facilitated through international negotiations.

Earlier statements from senior leadership have suggested that Pakistan may also play a role in hosting or supporting related diplomatic processes in Geneva, although details remain part of evolving developments.

Domestic Political Messaging

The defence minister’s speech also reflected a broader narrative within the government highlighting institutional cooperation and recent diplomatic achievements as key drivers of Pakistan’s improved international standing.

Such statements are often framed within the context of national unity and coordination between civilian and other state institutions.

Conclusion

Khawaja Asif’s remarks underline the government’s emphasis on institutional cooperation and recent diplomatic progress. While he highlighted potential missed opportunities in the past, he framed current developments as a significant moment in Pakistan’s international and regional engagement.