President Asif Ali Zardari addressed a joint session of Parliament on Monday, March 3, 2026, for the ninth time at the start of the new parliamentary year. The session, co-chaired by Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and members of both houses of Parliament.
Pakistan’s Stance on Regional Security
President Zardari issued a firm warning that Pakistan will not permit any entity, whether domestic or foreign, to utilize neighboring territory to destabilize the country’s peace. He stated, “Let me be clear: the soil of Pakistan is sacred. We will not allow any entity — domestic or foreign — to use neighbouring territory to destabilise our peace.” The address covered a wide range of national, regional, and international issues, including the situations in Kashmir, Palestine, and the Gulf region.
The president condemned the recent conflict involving Iran and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He likewise expressed condolences for the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Condemnation was also extended to attacks on the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with a call for negotiated solutions.
Challenges from Afghanistan and India
President Zardari addressed ongoing concerns regarding terrorist incursions from Afghanistan, stating that Pakistan has pursued diplomatic avenues to avoid military responses. He noted, “For us, war is always the last option. No state accepts serial attacks on its soil … We have let both India and Afghanistan see a fraction of our capabilities.” He urged the Afghan Taliban regime to dismantle terrorist groups operating within its borders, warning against allowing another country to use Afghanistan as a battlefield.
Turning to relations with India, President Zardari called for a shift from “war theatres to meaningful negotiating tables,” warning of potential consequences should India choose otherwise. He affirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also described India’s actions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty as “blatant hydro-terrorism,” jeopardizing Pakistan’s agricultural economy.
Economic and Domestic Priorities
Beyond foreign policy, President Zardari addressed domestic issues, including the economy, provincial autonomy, and poverty. He commended the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy but emphasized the need for inclusive growth, job creation, and direct relief for vulnerable populations. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening the Benazir Income Support Programme and empowering women.
The president also underscored the importance of provincial autonomy and effective coordination within the federation, calling for a just and equitable National Finance Commission Award. He emphasized the need to address the grievances of the people of Balochistan and ensure their full participation in Pakistan’s progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues did President Zardari address in his speech?
President Zardari addressed a wide range of issues, including regional security concerns related to Afghanistan and India, the conflicts in the Middle East, the situation in Kashmir and Palestine, the economy, and domestic issues such as provincial autonomy and poverty.
What was President Zardari’s message regarding Afghanistan?
President Zardari urged the Afghan Taliban regime to dismantle terrorist groups operating within its borders and warned against allowing Afghanistan to be used as a battlefield by other countries.
What did President Zardari say about India?
President Zardari called for India to move towards meaningful negotiations and warned of potential consequences if they do not, while also reaffirming Pakistan’s support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and condemning India’s actions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty.
As Pakistan navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, what role will diplomacy play in securing its interests and fostering regional stability?
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