ISLAMABAD — Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar on Tuesday urged political leaders, media outlets and social media users to exercise caution when discussing Pakistan’s foreign policy, citing rising regional tensions and the potential diplomatic impact of public statements.
Speaking at a press conference alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the law minister said Pakistan remains a nuclear-armed state with a defensive posture and an important role in regional stability. He said debates on sensitive foreign policy matters should be handled responsibly during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.
Tarar said Pakistan has consistently pursued diplomatic channels to address regional challenges and has presented its position at the United Nations Security Council. He added that the government remains engaged with international partners to manage the situation.
Government calls for responsible public discourse
The law minister emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected under Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution, certain legal limits apply when issues related to national security, religion and state interests are involved.
He said the government would act under the law if these boundaries are crossed and urged citizens to avoid statements that could harm Pakistan’s diplomatic standing.
Tarar also noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is in contact with regional countries regarding the current situation and has postponed a planned visit to Russia in light of the evolving regional developments.
Concerns over social media narratives
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said some public figures and online commentators promote controversial views to gain attention, which can create misunderstandings abroad about Pakistan’s official foreign policy.
He warned that statements circulating on social and electronic media are sometimes interpreted internationally as representing the government’s position.
The minister said Pakistan maintains friendly relations with countries across the region and stressed that foreign policy should not be influenced by domestic political competition or social media trends.
Attaullah Tarar added that government officials are bound by their constitutional oath to present the official stance of Pakistan’s Foreign Office when addressing sensitive international matters.
He said criticism related to domestic political issues remains part of democratic discourse but urged caution when discussing foreign policy and international relations.
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