India’s image shrinking, Pakistan now ‘talk of the town’ globally: Bilawal

DAVOS: Pakistan Peoples Party chairperson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said India’s global image has “become so very small” in recent months, while Pakistan is increasingly being discussed in geopolitical circles.

He credited Islamabad’s diplomatic conduct during recent international crises for strengthening the country’s standing on the world stage.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Pakistan TV Digital on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos 2026, Bilawal highlighted Pakistan’s role in the newly launched Board of Peace (BoP), an international initiative aimed at conflict resolution.

The organization, whose charter was signed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Davos forum, has already attracted membership from roughly 19 countries.

“The Board of Peace is a new concept,” Bilawal said.

“From Pakistan’s perspective, it is very important for us to be in the room while such important conversations are being had,” he added. “This allows us to put across not only our point of view but, more importantly, the point of view of the people of Palestine, whose right to self-determination and a peaceful home Pakistan has consistently advocated for since the country’s foundation.”

He emphasized that, while the recent Gaza ceasefire achieved the release of hostages and prisoners, the focus now should be on ensuring uninterrupted humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.

“Our number one priority must be that humanitarian aid and access are fully and completely implemented,” he said.

Bilawal also spoke about the geopolitical implications of China and other major powers joining the BoP. “China and other countries have also been invited to be members of this Board of Peace,” the former foreign minister said.

“That’s a positive indication, and it’s yet to be seen what their final decision will be,” Bilawal added, reaffirming Pakistan’s strong relationship with Beijing, citing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a historic achievement.

Turning to India, Bilawal offered a stark critique of New Delhi’s global positioning.

“It is incredibly unfortunate,” he said.

“India, which presented itself as a great power and a great democracy, has really become so very small over the course of the many months that we’ve seen post this conflict,” Bilawal said, referring to the cross-border clashes between the two countries in May last year.

The four-day conflict, triggered by a militant attack on civilians in Indian-occupied Kashmir, quickly escalated into the deadliest fighting between Pakistan and India since 2019, involving missile, drone, and artillery strikes before both sides accepted a US-brokered ceasefire.

Bilawal also raised concerns about India’s conduct on international platforms.

“Whether it’s the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, or anywhere on the world stage, India seems to be shying away,” he said, contrasting this with Pakistan’s diplomatic performance.

“The world has recognized how Pakistan performed, not only during this conflict but as a responsible player within the region. If you compare Pakistan’s positioning vis-à-vis India, despite India’s larger finances and military, it is Pakistan that is now the talk of the town in geopolitical circles.”

On water issue, Bilawal highlighted the Indus Waters Treaty, accusing India of illegally suspending the agreement.

“I discussed this with the World Bank president recently. The Indus Waters Treaty has long been the gold standard for water management. India’s violation of it exposes their narrative internationally.”

He also spoke on US relations, offering measured praise for President Donald Trump’s engagement in multilateral forums.

“I’m glad we have a US president who focuses on the positive sometimes. I’ve been to Davos often, and a lot of the time, countries focus on the negative,” he said.

“That’s something we should welcome.”

Concluding on digital media and international perception, Bilawal lauded Pakistan TV Digital’s efforts in presenting a domestic perspective to the world. “I’m glad the international audience is getting a perspective from inside Pakistan.”