Minister Khawaja Asif is a prominent figure in Pakistani politics, known for his long-standing affiliation with the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), or PML(N), and his vocal stance on national security issues. Born on August 9, 1949, in Sialkot, Punjab, he has spent decades in public service, holding several key cabinet positions and playing a central role in shaping Pakistan’s defense and foreign policies.
Minister Khawaja Asif’s political career began in the early 1990s when he was elected to the National Assembly of Pakistan. Representing his hometown of Sialkot, he has won multiple elections and is considered a trusted and experienced member of the PML(N) leadership. Over the years, he has held influential portfolios, including Minister for Defence, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Minister for Water and Power. His tenure in these roles has coincided with some of the most critical periods in Pakistan’s modern political history.
As Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif has represented Pakistan during heightened tensions with neighboring India, particularly over the disputed Kashmir region. He was first appointed to this role in 2013 under Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and returned to the position in April 2022 when Shehbaz Sharif formed a coalition government. In both terms, he became a strong voice defending Pakistan’s military actions and countering Indian narratives on international platforms.
In addition to his defense responsibilities, Minister Khawaja Asif briefly served as Pakistan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs from August 2017 to April 2018. During this period, he was involved in diplomatic efforts to reset ties with the United States and other key allies. He was known for his candid remarks, especially when addressing Pakistan’s controversial role in regional security and counter-terrorism. While acknowledging that Pakistan had made past mistakes by getting involved in foreign wars, he consistently emphasized the country’s desire to pursue peace and regional stability.
Khawaja Asif’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from Government College Lahore and a law degree from the University of the Punjab. He also studied in the United Kingdom, reportedly at the University of London. Before entering politics, he worked in the banking industry in both the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. His professional experience has contributed to his image as a pragmatic and detail-oriented leader.
Throughout his career, Minister Khawaja Asif has faced several controversies. In 2018, he was briefly disqualified by the Islamabad High Court for holding a foreign work permit, or Iqama, from the UAE. However, the Supreme Court later overturned this ruling, allowing him to resume his parliamentary duties. This legal challenge highlighted concerns about transparency and dual employment among public officials in Pakistan, but it also demonstrated his resilience in the face of political adversity.
Minister Khawaja Asif is known for his outspoken nature, especially when addressing Pakistan’s foreign relations with India and the United States. He has frequently accused India of escalating conflicts for political gain and has defended Pakistan’s stance in international forums. He has also criticized U.S. foreign policy in South Asia, particularly during the Afghan war, arguing that Pakistan was made to suffer consequences for decisions taken elsewhere. In recent interviews, he has reiterated that while Pakistan seeks peace, it is fully prepared to defend itself if provoked.
His remarks about terrorism have also drawn international attention. At times, he has admitted that Pakistan made strategic missteps in aligning with militant groups during past conflicts. However, he has consistently maintained that Pakistan is now focused on fighting extremism and promoting peace. He has questioned the global process for labeling individuals as terrorists, suggesting that geopolitical interests often influence such decisions.
Minister Khawaja Asif continues to play a central role in Pakistan’s government and remains a key figure in its national security and foreign policy debates. His experience, combined with his strong political alliances, keeps him at the forefront of the country’s most pressing issues.
