Addressing the launch ceremony of a picture book titled ‘The Battle of Truth’ (Marka-e-Haq) published by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (Directorate of Electronic Media and Publications (DEMP) in collaboration with Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), he said that the entire nation was standing united against any form of enemy aggression.

He said that Pakistan had emerged as a more stable and powerful country and had become a symbol of stability and a guarantor in the region. “We are ready for any kind of Indian proxy war,” he added.

The minister said that the Pakistan armed forces foiled India’s nefarious designs during Marka-e-Haq and successfully neutralised its S-400 air defence system.

He said no country is safe from India’s Hindutva mindset in the region, adding that it had repeatedly imposed wars on Pakistan to divert attention from its internal issues.

Referring to 2019, he said India resorted to so-called surgical strikes in the wake of the Pulwama incident, but ended up losing an aircraft and capturing a pilot. A similar conspiracy was also hatched following a false-flag operation in Pahalgam, he added.

The federal minister said India’s hegemonic mindset poses a serious challenge to peace and development in South Asia. Pakistan has always responded responsibly to tensions while reaffirming its commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, he said.

Khawaja Asif said Pakistan has consistently played a constructive role in promoting global peace and remains one of the leading contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions, reflecting its peace-loving approach.

Commending the professionalism and sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces, he said the nation stands united behind them. The people of Pakistan, regardless of political or regional differences, have repeatedly demonstrated solidarity during times of crisis, forming a “steel-like wall” against external threats.

Khawaja Asif said Pakistan has not only demonstrated strength on the defence front but has also achieved significant diplomatic gains, earning recognition at the international level.

He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces and people will remain united and prepared to respond effectively to future challenges.

The minister said the book is not merely a collection of images and writings but a “living narrative” of the nation’s determination, historic sacrifices, and unity in the face of challenges. He appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and ISPR for documenting Pakistan’s perspective and highlighting its commitment to peace and stability.