ISLAMABAD - Pakistan has not abandoned hope and continues to steadfastly pursue peace and diplomacy with a sense of optimism, even amid the recent escalation in the Middle East and the shrinking diplomatic space caused by fresh hostilities, the Foreign Office spokesperson stated on Thursday.
Pakistan's Optimistic Diplomatic Approach
“We remain engaged and we work with a degree of optimism, and such optimism is essential for a mediator or facilitator. We understand how diplomatic space has shrunk because of these hostilities. So we will continue to work with positivity,” said Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi during his weekly press briefing in Islamabad.
Concerns Over Middle East and Gulf Region
Andrabi expressed Pakistan's deep concern over the recent escalation in the Middle East and the standoff in the Gulf region. He appealed to all parties to adhere to the ceasefire understanding and prevent hostilities from widening, thereby creating room for dialogue and diplomacy.
Mediatory Efforts and Diplomatic Engagements
Pakistan has continued its mediatory efforts with key partners, noting recent visits and telephone calls involving Pakistani leadership. This includes the Interior Minister’s visit to Tehran carrying a message from the country’s leadership. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister Dar spoke with his Turkish counterpart late Wednesday night, discussing the evolving regional situation and stressing the importance of dialogue and restraint. Both expressed hope for an understanding that would contribute to peace and stability in the region.
Rejection of India's Statements on AJK
Rejecting India’s statements on Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the spokesperson dismissed the remarks entirely and highlighted the contrast between the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and AJK. He noted that IIOJK is an illegally annexed, internationally recognized disputed territory where people suffer systemic abuses under draconian laws and are denied their rights, including self-determination. In contrast, AJK’s government addresses issues within a democratic and constitutional framework.
Response to SIPRI Report
Commenting on the SIPRI report, Spokesperson Andrabi said the findings were not surprising and corroborated Pakistan’s concerns over India’s vertical proliferation and strategic capabilities, including canisterisation, sea-based systems, and longer-range ICBMs. He stated, “We are not interested in an arms race or matching warheads, arms, and ammunition by number. However, we remain mindful of the evolving security environment. We will continue to take measures essential for preserving strategic stability and deterring any possible Indian aggression.”
Warning on Indus Waters Treaty
Responding to the Indian Water Resources Minister’s statement, Andrabi warned that any attempt to block water to Pakistan would be a deeply irresponsible act contrary to international obligations and the Indus Waters Treaty. Reiterating Pakistan’s stance, he said such an act would be treated with utmost seriousness and would amount to an act of war. “Pakistan will take all necessary measures to safeguard its economy, vital national interests, and the lives of its 250 million people. We call upon India to take responsibility, honor its international commitments, and refrain from statements and actions that would further escalate tensions in the region.”
Efforts to Secure Release of Pakistani Nationals from Somali Pirates
The spokesperson informed media that the government is engaged with Somali authorities and the ship owner to secure the release of Pakistani nationals held by Somali pirates for nearly 50 days aboard an empty cargo ship. He highlighted recent diplomatic efforts, including the Deputy Prime Minister’s call with the Somali Foreign Minister and upcoming inter-ministerial meetings. DPM Dar urged the Somali counterpart to take steps to improve living conditions for all crew members, including ten Pakistanis and seven others of different nationalities.
Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
Regarding xenophobic attacks in South Africa against African and Asian nationals, Andrabi said Pakistan’s embassy in Pretoria is actively engaged to ensure the safety of Pakistani nationals, with cooperation from South African authorities.
Strikes Along Pak-Afghan Border
On Pakistani strikes along the Pak-Afghan border, he stated that they were conducted based on credible intelligence with precision targeting of terrorist hideouts linked to the Bannu attack, emphasizing that the safety and security of Pakistani citizens remains the top priority.
Deportation of Pakistanis from UAE
To a question on the deportation of Pakistanis from the UAE, he said Pakistani missions are engaged, and any left-behind assets would be recovered as Pakistan’s ambassador, consul generals, and community welfare sections are involved in this process.
