Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz did not make any statement suggesting a threat from the provinces, adding that her remarks were being distorted and interpreted incorrectly.

Talking to a news channel, Khawaja Asif said attempts were being made to twist Maryam Nawaz's statement and attach meanings to it that were not intended.

He said political statements were often distorted and presented in a manner that created misunderstandings.

Khawaja Asif expressed confidence that matters relating to Sindh and other issues would be resolved.

He said that protest and expressing one's opinion were the right of every citizen.

Commenting on the debate regarding the creation of new provinces and administrative units, the Defence Minister said the establishment of new administrative units was in the best national interest.

He said the matter should have been addressed much earlier in accordance with the spirit of the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

Khawaja Asif said there had already been considerable delay of several years in establishing new administrative units.

He said the final decision regarding matters relating to provinces and administrative restructuring would ultimately be taken by Parliament.

The Defence Minister said the debate over the creation of new provinces should not remain confined to political circles and should instead be discussed widely throughout society.

He said a broader public and political debate was necessary to build consensus on the issue and determine the most appropriate administrative arrangements for Pakistan.