Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday rejected remarks by India‘s defence minister, saying political statements cannot change the internationally recognised status of Jammu and Kashmir. He said Pakistan remains committed to peace and dialogue but will not compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national security. His remarks came after recent comments by the Indian leadership on the Kashmir dispute.

Asif said Pakistan rejects attempts to reshape internationally recognised legal realities through political narratives. He added that India‘s statements cannot change the legal status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He also said such remarks do not support regional peace or meaningful dialogue.

The defence minister said Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised disputed territory. He stressed that the issue should be resolved under United Nations Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. He added that international law, not political rhetoric, should guide any future settlement.

Meanwhile, Asif accused India of making statements that increase tensions in South Asia. He claimed New Delhi was trying to divert attention from its own record by repeatedly accusing Pakistan. He also warned that such rhetoric could raise the risk of conflict between the two countries.

The defence minister reiterated that Pakistan supports dialogue to resolve disputes peacefully. However, he said the country is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and national security if required. He also alleged that India’s leadership was using such statements to shift attention from domestic political challenges.