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The Foreign Office has clarified that no date has been set for the much-anticipated Islamabad Talks. Officials urged restraint in speculation while highlighting the country’s growing diplomatic role in regional peace efforts.
During the weekly briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said no date has yet been announced for the Islamabad talks. He emphasized that if talks are scheduled, the official date and time will be shared publicly.
The spokesperson also urged media outlets to avoid speculation regarding the timing of the talks.
Andrabi commended the Pakistani media for its responsible and professional conduct. He noted that local media largely avoided speculative reporting and maintained credibility during sensitive diplomatic developments.
He also stressed that Pakistan welcomes the talks and views them in a positive light. He stated that decisions regarding who will participate, the size of the delegation, and related arrangements will be made by the parties concerned themselves.
The spokesperson emphasized that, as a mediator, it was important for Pakistan to keep the talks confidential. He added that the same policy of discretion was applied to both national and international media.
He further explained that all details and information regarding the talks were entrusted to Pakistan by the negotiating parties, and were handled accordingly.
He also noted that Pakistan maintains ongoing contact with both Iran and Saudi Arabia, and that its defense agreement with Saudi Arabia remains active. He reiterated that Pakistan is striving for comprehensive peace in the region and is engaging with multiple countries to achieve this goal.
Commenting on the Islamabad Talks, he described them as “very constructive,” noting that the 21-hour session was dedicated entirely to dialogue and negotiations between the parties.
He added that the prime minister and the chief of defense forces were present throughout the process.
UAE ties remain strong
Addressing circulating rumours, the spokesperson firmly denied any strain in Pakistan’s relations with the United Arab Emirates. He described the UAE as a “friend and brotherly country” and clarified that financial matters, including the return of funds, should not be linked to bilateral relations.
The Foreign Office highlighted that Pakistan’s mediation efforts have been widely appreciated by the international community.
According to Andrabi, Pakistan accepted the challenge of facilitating talks between warring countries and played a constructive role in reducing tensions between the United States and Iran. He reiterated that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region.
Military leadership visits Iran
The spokesperson also confirmed that Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Iran on an official visit a day earlier. The visit is seen as part of ongoing diplomatic engagement amid regional tensions.
He also noted that Pakistan maintains ongoing contact with both Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s aggression and attacks in Lebanon during the briefing. The Foreign Office reiterated its concern over the humanitarian situation and ongoing military operations.
Concerns over Indian officer’s promotion
The spokesperson also commented on reports regarding the promotion of Indian Army officer Col Purohit.
He stated that Purohit was allegedly involved in the Samjhauta Express terrorist incident and said the development raises serious questions about India’s alleged state-sponsored terrorism.
The spokesperson condemned the recent attack on the Pakistani Coast Guards, stating that further details are being gathered.
Islamabad on high alert
Meanwhile, sources indicate that a second round of US-Iran talks may be held in Islamabad. In anticipation, security in the federal capital has been placed on high alert.
Security arrangements have been finalized for sensitive locations and red zones in Islamabad. Additional personnel have been called in from across Punjab, with police deployment for special duties currently underway. Personnel are expected to arrive in the capital by tonight.
