ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office said on Thursday that India’s role in terrorism in Pakistan is “abundantly clear” and accused New Delhi of orchestrating violence and bloodshed globally.
Speaking at the weekly press briefing in Islamabad, spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan is absolutely clear in its stance against terrorism and highlighted Indian interference in Balochistan, accusing Indian proxies of being involved in terrorist attacks. He said Pakistan is raising the issue of Indian terrorism at all international forums.
Addressing regional security, the spokesperson described the presence of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan as a major challenge. He said Pakistan is in contact with Afghan authorities over the issue and expressed hope that the Afghan government would work with Pakistan to overcome this challenge.
Commenting on the country’s past security policies, Shafqat Ali Khan said: “What happened in the past is done; only the leaders of that time can explain the decisions made in the 1980s. We should not remain prisoners of the past but must look to the future.”
On the issue of Kashmir, he condemned decades-long human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and expressed regret that the plight of Kashmiris has not eased. He said Pakistan’s stance is clear regarding the disrespect and abuse faced by Kashmiri youth.
Regarding PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto’s recent remarks, the spokesperson said their interpretation is up to the PPP itself, clarifying that Bilawal did not name anyone in reference to “handing over” leaders to India. He accused India’s National Security Adviser of distorting facts and said the Indian NSA’s statement reflects New Delhi’s aggressive designs.
On foreign engagements, the spokesperson confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has no plans to meet Indian leaders on the sidelines of the SCO summit but will have meetings scheduled with other participating leaders.
Touching on water issues, he underscored the critical importance of the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it “a matter of life and death for 250 million people.”
Shafqat Ali Khan also reiterated Pakistan’s strong ties with China and affirmed that there is no change in Islamabad’s policy on Taiwan. He said Pakistan is keen to join the BRICS group of countries but declined to comment on related news, stating that Pakistan is not yet a member.
He further noted that Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change despite contributing relatively little to global emissions.
On economic matters, he said the government is working to revive Pakistan Steel Mills, once described as a gift from the Soviet Union, and is in contact with senior U.S. officials regarding trade agreements.
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