Pakistan has dismissed Indian assertions of setting a new normal in bilateral relations through the recent missile attacks and said that India’s notions of superiority in warfare and hegemonic designs have been dispelled.

Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Shafqat Ali Khan said that Pakistan has proven that it has credible deterrence against Indian designs.

He added that Pakistan’s response to Indian aggression had been measured and proportionate and was only taken in self defence after India repeatedly violated Pakistan’s sovereignty.

Khan also said that India’s assertions of setting a new normal were unfounded. He said that the only normal that remains is the respect for Pakistan’s sovereignty and integrity.

The spokesman also said that it was a positive development that both countries had agreed on a ceasefire. He added that the two sides have agreed to implement phased de-escalation.

However, he clarified that Pakistan had not asked for a ceasefire and it was instead achieved through the efforts of several countries.

The spokesman also said that Pakistan has released an Indian BSF official on May 14 as a goodwill gesture. He added that Indian had also released a Rangers sepoy in return.

Khan also said that while India’s stance has been aimed at justifying aggression, Pakistan reiterates its commitment to ceasefire. He added that Pakistan will respond strongly if India violates ceasefire.