Islamabad :— Senate Standing Committee on Defence held its meeting at the Parliament House, during which a new chairman was unanimously elected. Senator Umar Farooq proposed Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood for the position, with Senator Sarmad Ali seconded it. The committee members unanimously endorsed the proposal, electing Senator Talha Mahmood as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Defence.
After assuming the charge, Senator Talha Mahmood said that the Defence Committee is among the most significant committees of the Upper House, and pledged to work collectively with members to strengthen the country’s defence framework and enhance the national security apparatus.
He paid rich tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan for their sacrifices in defending the nation, protecting the borders, and ensuring law and order. Referring to recent Pakistan–India tensions, he noted that the courage and valour displayed by the armed forces had elevated Pakistan’s standing at the global level. “National security must remain our foremost priority, and the entire nation must remain united on this issue. Supporting our military is a matter of national interest,” he emphasized.
The Chairman also highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s recent agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing it as a landmark accord of great strategic value, deserving national pride.
Senator Talha Mahmood further observed that there is room for improvement in institutions associated with the Ministry of Defence, and assured that the committee will remain proactive in suggesting reforms and improvements. He stressed the need for joint efforts for the country’s progress, prosperity, and stability.
Expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah, he recalled his long-standing parliamentary career since 2006, including his leadership of several key committees such as Interior, Cabinet Secretariat, and Finance. He said chairing the Defence Committee is an honour and he will dedicate all his energies and capabilities to the service of the nation.
Touching upon regional issues, Senator Talha Mahmood underscored the strategic importance of Chitral, lamenting its lack of basic infrastructure. He urged that Chitral’s airport be made fully operational without delay and that suspended flights be resumed to improve connectivity with the rest of the country. “Chitral holds immense geographical and strategic significance, as it borders four different regions. The committee will convene a special meeting to receive detailed briefings from concerned departments on this matter,” he announced.
He also drew attention to the poor road conditions in Chitral, emphasizing that development, prosperity, and provision of facilities in the area are indispensable. Similarly, he called for greater attention towards underdeveloped regions of Balochistan.
On this occasion, Senator Umar Farooq congratulated the newly elected chairman and stressed that Parliament must be taken into confidence regarding the recent Saudi–Pakistan agreement, urging the Ministry of Defence to provide a comprehensive briefing. Senator Sarmad Ali and Senator Abdul Quddus Bizenjo also felicitated Senator Talha Mahmood and assured him of their full cooperation in the committee’s work.
The unanimous election of Senator Talha Mahmood as Chairman of the Defence Committee reflects the confidence and unity of the members, raising expectations for strengthened parliamentary oversight and further improvements in national defence and security matters.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
