Focusing on the ongoing visits of various US delegations, the Foreign Office emphasised the diverse aspects of Pakistan-US relations. The spokesperson clarified that these visits were about more than just Afghanistan.
Pakistan strongly condemned Israel's use of force in Gaza, adding that, according to the United Nations secretary general, there were serious threats to Gazan citizens. This reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to advocating for peace and justice globally.
She said no place in Gaza was safe for the public, adding that the Palestine issue is based on a two-state solution
The spokesperson announced that Pakistan had received an updated list from the US, adding that efforts would be made to speed up the return of the people on the list by making the visa process smoother.
Regarding a statement about the visits of US embassy officials, she did not offer comments. But, highlighted that Pakistan will discuss important matters in meetings with US authorities. Similarly, the US shared its concerns on any issues it had between the two countries.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch further said the Torkham border gate was opened on Wednesday. This shows ongoing communication between Pakistan and the US to address issues in a friendly way.
Pakistan raised concerns about the US statements regarding Dr Aafia Siddiqui and took these statements seriously. The caretaker prime minister had also directed to take this issue up with the US, which would be followed.
The spokesperson mentioned past appeals to the US not to harm Dr Aafia Siddiqui.
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Furthermore, the FO spokesperson said the former PM’s accountability adviser Shahzad Akbar had not sought help from the Pakistani High Commission in the UK. It was emphasized that it's not Pakistan's policy to target its citizens abroad.
She stressed that expressed full confidence in the capabilities of the UK law enforcement agencies. She also welcomed that sharing of information by the British institutions.
Moreover, she talked about the country's significant role and sacrifices in fighting terrorism. The world acknowledged Pakistan's commitment to stopping terrorism financing.
Responding to an American report, the Foreign Office spokesperson rejected statements from previous years, saying the report doesn't match the facts. The cases of prisoner exchange are prepared and submitted by the Interior Ministry.
Looking ahead to diplomatic talks, the Foreign Office spokesperson announced that discussions with US special representative Tom West would focus on various issues related to Afghanistan. During the visit of the US assistant secretary of state, the talks will cover a wider range of topics.
She also talked about border issues, mentioning that sometimes there were misunderstandings between border administrations. She highlighted that these misunderstandings got sorted out through talks. She also rejected claims of Afghan authorities on any part of Pakistan. Those statements are contrary to facts, she insisted.
Baloch encouraged Afghanistan to focus on fighting terrorist groups instead of making anti-Pakistan statements. She stressed the need for both countries to work together against terrorism and urged the interim Afghan authorities to concentrate on bringing peace within Afghanistan.
Addressing the issue of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan, the spokesperson emphasized the importance of taking action against them for regional stability. This indicates Pakistan's stance on working with neighbouring countries to address security concerns.
