ISLAMABAD : Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has asserted that India has lost its diplomatic edge, claiming that a group of four to five individuals, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is currently “scratching its face” in frustration.
Speaking on Geo News’ Naya Pakistan program, Asif remarked that Pakistan’s leadership is playing a pivotal role in the current regional situation and has cultivated strong relations with countries facing instability. He emphasized that all nations share a common interest in establishing peace.
The Defense Minister noted that Pakistan’s role in the Muslim world has become significantly clearer following the war with India, adding that the country did not previously hold such a key position. “Now the world has established trust in Pakistan,” he said.
Asif credited the country’s hybrid system and leadership for delivering at a critical juncture, stating that Pakistan now has an opportunity to secure its place in history. He stressed that Pakistan cannot afford isolation given the regional dynamics and pointed out that the international community is acknowledging Pakistan’s role as a mediator in major conflicts. Regarding the possibility of hosting Iran‑US talks, he said it was “too early to say anything.”
Responding to a statement by the Indian Foreign Minister, Asif hit back, saying, “This group of four or five, including Modi, are currently scratching their faces.” He questioned India’s criticism of Pakistan’s mediation efforts, asking, “What were they doing in Ukraine?” He added that the war in Ukraine remains unresolved, and India had been taking credit for its diplomatic efforts at the time, only to become a “laughing stock at the diplomatic level.”
