By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: Addressing the SAARC Charter Day ceremony at the University of the Punjab, Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said that geography is beyond human control and nations cannot choose their neighbors, making wise, responsible, and forward-looking decisions essential for ensuring regional peace and stability.
He observed that strained relations with India, along with tensions involving Afghanistan and other neighboring countries, have negatively affected the entire region, rendering regional cooperation not just desirable but indispensable.
The Speaker said that if prevailing conditions do not improve, alternative avenues should be explored with seriousness and foresight. He noted that SAARC can still be utilized more effectively to promote regional cooperation and, where necessary, alternative regional forums may also be considered. Retreating from regional engagement, he warned, runs counter to collective regional interests, as prolonged tension brings neither progress nor stability.
Clarifying Pakistan’s position, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan stated that no evidence has emerged linking any Pakistani national to the Pahalgam incident. He added that Pakistan’s offer for transparent, third-party investigations weakened Indian propaganda, a stance acknowledged by the international community during a period of heightened tensions.
He further remarked that deteriorating relations with India and Afghanistan undermine regional stability, with extremist ideologies and political dominance contributing to these challenges. Emphasizing dialogue and research, he said rational discourse remains the only viable path toward sustainable peace, adding that images from conflict zones such as Kashmir and Palestine should awaken the collective conscience of humanity.
Earlier, the Speaker attended the PGMI–AMCON Postgraduate Residents Symposium 2025 at Lahore General Hospital as chief guest. He highlighted the importance of postgraduate medical education, research, and healthcare reforms, commended Ameer-ud-Din Medical College and Lahore General Hospital, and called for increased investment in the health sector. He also stressed the need to eliminate quackery and urged young doctors to prioritize service to the nation.
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