Pak, India should sit down at the table like peaceful neighbours and settle their outstanding issues: PM Shehbaz

Islamabad: Pakistan and India should sit down at the table like peaceful neighbours and settle their outstanding issues, including Kashmir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Friday night, as the country observed 'Youm-e-Tashakur' (Day of Thanks) to pay homage to the military.

Addressing a special 'Youm-e-Tashakur' event at the Pakistan Monument here, Shehbaz said that India and Pakistan fought three wars and got nothing.

"The lesson is to sit down as peaceful neighbours and settle all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. Without resolution of our issues, we cannot have peace in this part of the world,” Shehbaz said.

India has made it clear that it will only have a dialogue with Pakistan on the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the issue of terrorism.

"If peace comes, we can also cooperate in counterterrorism,” said the Prime Minister, who was the chief guest at the event, attended by top army officials.

India carried out precision strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' on terror infrastructure early on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.

Following the Indian action, Pakistan attempted to attack Indian military bases on May 8, 9 and 10. The Indian forces launched a fierce counter-attack on several Pakistani military installations.

India and Pakistan reached an understanding on May 10 to end the military confrontation after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.

Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked all friendly countries for their role in arranging the ceasefire, and especially thanked US President Donald Trump for playing "an active role".

State-run Radio Pakistan reported that the day dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered. Rallies were also held across the country to express solidarity with the armed forces.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz hoisted the national flag at the PM House in Islamabad in connection with 'Youm-e-Tashakkur'.

“Pakistan is a peaceful country, but it reserves the right to give a befitting response in its defence,” he said, recalling the recent military confrontation with India.

He said the armed forces of Pakistan responded "befittingly and effectively" to India and wrote a "golden chapter" in the military history of the country.

Shehbaz also visited the residence of Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf, who was killed in attacks by India, state-run Associated Press of Pakistan reported. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Army chief Asim Munir and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accompanied the prime minister.

The prime minister extended his condolences to the family members of the squadron leader.

He also visited Rawalpindi’s Combined Military Hospital to enquire about the health of soldiers and civilians injured in the recent Indian attacks.

"The way the Pakistan armed forces and the entire nation fought this war is unparalleled,” he said.

It was for the second time that 'Youm-e-Tashakkur' was observed after a ceasefire was announced. It was first observed on Sunday, when rallies were taken out to pay tribute to the armed forces for their response to India.

"Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core national interests,” President Asif Ali Zardari said.