Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari continued his diplomatic efforts in Washington, D.C., engaging with senior U.S. lawmakers to underscore Pakistan’s commitment to peace, regional stability, and justice, amid heightened tensions with India.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with Senator Jim Banks for a candid discussion on peace and security in South Asia. He commended President Donald Trump’s role in facilitating the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan, viewing it as an opportunity for broader peace efforts. Bilawal expressed serious concerns about India’s provocations, the humanitarian crisis in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), and its unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which threatens regional water security and sets a dangerous precedent. He emphasized that military actions are not the solution, advocating instead for diplomacy and meaningful dialogue to ensure lasting peace in South Asia.
In another meeting, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari engaged with Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on South & Central Asia. Their discussion centered on the deteriorating regional environment under the Modi government, where incidents by unidentified actors are used to justify aggressive actions against Pakistan. Bilawal cautioned that this approach risks escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. He acknowledged the temporary ceasefire secured with U.S. assistance but criticized India’s portrayal of it as merely a “pause,” suggesting a lack of commitment to long-term peace. Bilawal also expressed concern over India’s weaponization of water resources through the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, urging international accountability. He emphasized that India cannot claim to enhance regional security while destabilizing its own region and underscored the importance of a dialogue-based resolution to the Kashmir issue.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also held discussions with Senator Chris Van Hollen, a longstanding advocate for human rights in Kashmir. They addressed ongoing human rights violations in IIOJK, the communication blackout, and restrictions on civil liberties. Senator Van Hollen was briefed on Pakistan’s stance that any peace process must be inclusive and grounded in justice and international law. Bilawal expressed gratitude for the Senator’s continued interest in the region and emphasized the need for U.S. leadership in facilitating a peaceful resolution to all outstanding disputes between India and Pakistan, particularly the issue of Jammu & Kashmir.
