President Asif Ali Zardari said on Monday that Pakistan is at a critical historical juncture requiring unity, stability, and wise decision-making in his ninth address to a joint session of parliament.

“The strength of the republic lies in the constitution, public steadfastness, supremacy of the parliament, the responsibility of the government and the courage of the armed forces,” Zardari said, according to state television PTV.

At the start of the session, a Fateha was recited for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, victims of attacks in Arab countries, and martyrs of Pakistan’s security forces. Opposition lawmakers continuously protested and chanted slogans during the address.

The President paid tribute to the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the constitutional legacy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and the democratic sacrifices of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.

He noted that the Eighteenth Amendment had transferred presidential powers to parliament, making the presidency a bridge between federal units and a guardian of the constitution.

On national security, the president said Pakistan had faced complex challenges over the past ten months. “Whenever national sovereignty was challenged, Pakistan has shown restraint and strong resolve,” he said.

He praised the armed forces for professionalism in responding to unprovoked attacks on both borders, calling the efforts a “historic strategic victory.” He also paid tribute to martyrs and pledged continued support for their families.

The President said 2025 had been a decisive year, with successful military and diplomatic strategies thwarting external aggression.

He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and said lasting peace in South Asia depended on a just resolution of the Kashmir issue.

He emphasised that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and that war is never the first option, but the right to defend sovereignty is reserved.

He condemned the activities of banned militant groups, including the TTP and BLA, and expressed concern over the use of Afghan soil for terrorism, citing Article 51 of the UN Charter to justify self-defence.

On foreign relations, Zardari highlighted growing strategic cooperation with the United States, deepened ties with China, and the upcoming CPEC Phase II infrastructure projects.

He also mentioned expanding relations with Gulf countries, Turky, and Azerbaijan, while reiterating Pakistan’s support for an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders.

On water security, the president called India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty illegal, describing it as a violation of international law.

Economically, he said government measures had stabilised key indicators following difficulties in 2022, and outlined priorities including inclusive growth, employment, energy reforms, agricultural development, digital economy promotion, and social protection programs.

He emphasised women’s financial independence and digital access as a national priority.

The President concluded by urging parliament and political leaders to work together for federal harmony, provincial autonomy, the elimination of terrorism, economic stability, and the promotion of democratic governance.