During a Senate session on Thursday, Senator Faisal Vawda advocated for a threefold increase in Pakistan’s defence budget, emphasizing that the Pakistan Army had achieved a significant strategic edge over India despite operating with limited resources.
Commending Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir—recently honored with the ceremonial rank of Field Marshal—Vawda applauded his leadership, particularly for maintaining discipline and ethics under pressure. He highlighted General Munir’s directive to avoid civilian casualties as a reflection of Pakistan’s adherence to international wartime principles.
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Vawda warned that any lapse in defense preparedness could nullify recent military gains, arguing that national security should take precedence even if it means reducing developmental expenditures. He further proposed doubling the salaries of armed forces personnel, stressing this should be a national priority.
He stated that development projects could be postponed until the ongoing tensions with India are resolved. The session also included strong condemnation of a recent attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, which lawmakers blamed on Indian-backed proxies. Senators expressed sorrow over the deaths of innocent students and reaffirmed their resolve to eradicate such threats.
Calling for unity, Vawda urged both the government and opposition to set aside political differences and present a united stance globally. He announced that Bilawal Bhutto would head a delegation to engage the international community, and if required, Pakistan was prepared to strike beyond its borders.
Vawda concluded by stressing the importance of simultaneous diplomatic and economic efforts, stating that while Pakistan does not seek war, it will never forget the children martyred in Khuzdar. True victory, he said, must resonate not just on the battlefield but also in global perception.
