Transcript of the Press Briefing by the Spokesperson on Friday 09th October, 2026

Ladies and Gentlemen, Assalam-o-Alaikum 
 
I welcome you all to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 
 
I will begin with some important developments concerning Pakistan’s foreign relations since our last briefing.
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Today, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the repeated Houthi terrorist attacks against Saudi Arabia and commended the vigilance of the Saudi armed forces and the Coalition in protecting civilian lives.
 
Earlier on 2 October, Pakistan strongly condemned the Houthi militia’s attack on the Taibah power distribution station in Madinah while terming the attack deeply reprehensible and a grave provocation, underscoring the importance of protecting the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques and the safety of worshippers and pilgrims under all circumstances.
 
Let me reiterate, Pakistan stands in unwavering solidarity with the Kingdom. In line with the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, our commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security remains resolute. We reaffirm the Kingdom’s legitimate right to defend its people and protect its critical infrastructure.
 
The emergency meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee of the Makkah Alliance for Defence was held in Riyadh on 5 October.
 
The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, along with Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Chief of Army Staff & Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, attended the meeting.
 
The meeting brought together the respective Foreign Ministers, Defence Ministers, and Chiefs of General Staff of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.
 
Discussions focused on recent regional developments and cooperation under the framework of the Makkah Agreement. 
 
The Committee reviewed the security situation and threats facing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reaffirmed its commitment to collective defence, and strongly condemned attempts to target Makkah and Madinah, as well as attacks on cities, civilians, and economic infrastructure.
 
The Committee also decided to move towards the practical implementation of collective defence commitments and approved measures to enhance readiness, military integration, and the collective capacity of the three countries to confront threats. 
 
In this context, the Parties reaffirmed that the security of each country is an integral part of the collective security of the three countries and reiterated their determination to defend their security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in accordance with the provisions of the Makkah Agreement.
 
Meanwhile, in another development on the regional front, Pakistan participated in the 8th Meeting of the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, held on 5 October in Moscow. 
 
SAPM/Special Representative for Afghanistan Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Kabul represented Pakistan at the consultations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Let me now turn to Pakistan’s engagement with the United Nations, which remained a key feature of our diplomatic engagements this week. 
 
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, H.E. António Guterres, undertook an official visit to Pakistan from 6 to 8 October 2026. 
 
The visit reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the United Nations and provided an opportunity to exchange views on major regional and international developments. 
 
On 6 October, the Secretary-General held talks with Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
 
Discussions covered regional and international peace and security, Palestine, Jammu and Kashmir, Afghanistan, terrorism, peacekeeping, sustainable development, climate change, and multilateralism. 
 
The DPM/FM briefed the Secretary-General on Pakistan’s efforts for dialogue and de-escalation, reiterated Pakistan’s position on Jammu and Kashmir, raised concerns over India’s decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, and highlighted the continued use of Afghan soil for terrorist attacks against Pakistan. 
 
The Secretary-General also called on the President of Pakistan, who conferred upon him the Nishan-e-Imtiaz in recognition of his distinguished international service and contribution to global peace and development. 
 
On 7 October, the Secretary-General called on the Prime Minister and also held meetings with the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, and the Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control.
 
During the visit, he also visited the headquarters of UN Military Observer Group for India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) and attended a briefing at the National Disaster Management Authority on Pakistan’s disaster preparedness and early warning capabilities. 
 
The Foreign Service Academy also hosted a special talk by the Secretary-General on strengthening multilateralism and the role of the United Nations.
 
The DPM/FM reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the UN Charter, international law, and peaceful settlement of disputes, while the Secretary-General underscored the need for stronger multilateral cooperation and a more representative and effective United Nations. 
 
The Secretary-General concluded his visit on 8 October, reaffirming the close partnership between Pakistan and the United Nations and Pakistan’s continued commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy.
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Alongside these important multilateral engagements, Pakistan continued its bilateral diplomatic engagement and outreach. 
 
On the bilateral front, on 6 October, UK Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan at the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Stephen Doughty, held a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister. 
 
The two sides reviewed Pakistan-UK bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, education, security, and other areas of mutual interest. 
 
They also exchanged views on regional and international developments and agreed to work towards the early operationalization of the Pakistan-UK Bilateral Political Dialogue.
 
Earlier, on 3 October, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott called on the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister. 
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
Another important bilateral development was on 7 October, whereby the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister received Belarusian National Security Adviser Lieutenant-General Aleksandr Volfovich.
 
The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction at the positive momentum in Pakistan-Belarus ties. 
 
They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation across areas of mutual interest and exchanged views on regional and international developments.  
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Let me now turn to an important bilateral engagement with the Kingdom of Bahrain. 
 
The Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, undertook an official visit to Pakistan from 7 to 8 October, at the invitation of the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister. 
 
During the visit, the two dignitaries held detailed discussions on bilateral cooperation and regional developments, co-chaired the 3rd Session of the Pakistan-Bahrain Joint Ministerial Commission, and interacted with the media. 
 
The two sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, economic, defence, and security ties, labour and manpower, cultural exchanges, and other areas of mutual interest. 
They also exchanged views on regional and international developments and cooperation at multilateral forums.  
 
The visit reflected the positive momentum in Pakistan-Bahrain relations and the shared commitment of both countries to further deepen bilateral cooperation and advance mutually beneficial ties. 
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Let me now turn to an important visit which commenced yesterday. 
 
On 8 October, His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, arrived in Islamabad for an official visit to Pakistan from 8 to 10 October 2026. 
 
This is the first-ever visit to Pakistan by a Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See. 
 
The visit also coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Holy See.
 
During his meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, including interfaith harmony, dialogue, and peace, as well as regional and international developments. 
 
The visit marks an important milestone in the longstanding relations between Pakistan and the Holy See. 
 
It reflects their shared commitment to further strengthening mutual understanding, cooperation, and trust, while promoting interfaith harmony and peace. 
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Following the killing of two Pakistani civilians by the Indian Border Security Force in the Bedian Sector along the International Border on 2 October, the Indian Chargé d’Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 3 October, and a strong protest was lodged.
 
Pakistan categorically rejected the unprovoked and disproportionate use of lethal force against unarmed civilians and called upon India to conduct an immediate, transparent, and credible investigation, take appropriate legal and disciplinary action against those responsible, and share the findings with Pakistan. 
 
India was also urged to respect international law, fundamental human rights, relevant bilateral arrangements, and established border procedures, exercise maximum restraint, and take effective measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
Coming over to the rescue mission of Pakistani nationals from Somalia, on 4 October, four injured Pakistani crew members of MT Honour 25, along with the mortal remains of three Pakistani nationals, were repatriated from Addis Ababa to Karachi, while the remaining three crew members returned on 7 October.
 
Our Missions in Djibouti and Addis Ababa facilitated their stay and onward travel as part of the Government’s sustained efforts to ensure the safe return of all surviving crew members.  
 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
Finally, on 6 October, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar delivered a keynote address via a video message at the International Water Symposium convened by the Embassy of Pakistan in Austria in collaboration with the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna. 

The Symposium brought together diplomats, academics, and experts to discuss water security, transboundary river governance, and obligations under international law. 
 
In his address, the DPM/FM condemned India’s weaponization of water, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty, and highlighted the Court of Arbitration’s Award affirming that the Treaty remains in force and its obligations must be respected. 
 
He underscored that shared rivers should remain instruments of peace and cooperation, not coercion, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending its rights under the Treaty. 
 
With that, I conclude my opening statement and will now be happy to take your questions.
 
Thank you.

*
(Nayyar Ali, 365 News): During his visit to Pakistan, the UNSG has acknowledged the crucial role of UNMOGIP towards maintaining regional peace, which constitutes a reiteration of the internationally recognised disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir and the need for its resolution for lasting peace and stability in South Asia. What are your comments in this regard?

Spokesperson:  Pakistan welcomes these comments. 

Jammu and Kashmir remains one of the oldest unresolved, internationally recognized disputes on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council. The relevant UN resolutions stipulate that its final disposition must be made in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people, expressed through a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices.

UNMOGIP is a symbol of the United Nations’ continued commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the region for the settlement of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, as well as a guarantee for ensuring peace and stability in the region.

There is a need to further strengthen the presence and role of UNMOGIP, alongside a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

(Sonia Malik, Koh-e-Noor News): The Board of Peace’s recent statement on the anniversary of 7 October focuses on Israel’s security, the demilitarization of Gaza and the threat posed by Hamas, but does not explicitly refer to Palestinian statehood or the broader question of occupation. Does Pakistan fully endorse this statement, and how does its participation in the Board of Peace align with its longstanding position in support of Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution based on relevant UN resolutions?

Spokesperson:  Pakistan’s position remains unchanged. We joined the Board of Peace, along with other Arab-Islamic countries, with the objective of ending the bloodshed in Gaza and advancing a credible political process consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions.

Pakistan continues to call for full implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan and UNSC Resolution 2803, protection of Palestinian civilians, an end to settlement activity and forced displacement, and the realization of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination through an independent, sovereign and contiguous State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

(Kiran Butt, The Khorasan Diary): Sir, as you rightly mentioned in your opening statement, Pakistan attended the Moscow Format meeting. My question relates to this: the meeting concluded without a joint statement, reportedly due to differences over the language on terrorism. Does this reflect a further deterioration in relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan? Is Pakistan planning to participate in the next Moscow Format meeting? 

Spokesperson: Pakistan participated constructively in the meeting and clearly conveyed its concerns regarding terrorism emanating from Afghan territory. While maintaining its principled position, Pakistan underscored that terrorism emanating from Afghanistan poses a serious threat to neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan. As you are aware, these concerns were duly reflected in the joint statement issued at last year’s Moscow Format meeting. However, this year, the Afghan Taliban delegation did not agree to retain the previously agreed language and departed from its earlier position. We believe that any joint statement that does not adequately reflect this legitimate security concern would not present a fair picture of the ground realities. For Pakistan, this is a substantive security issue, not merely a matter of wording. However, the absence of a joint statement should not overshadow the value of regional dialogue.

We are still a year away from the next meeting of Moscow Format, so we will have sufficient time to hold consultations for taking a decision for future participation. As I have already mentioned, that it is part of our engagement on the issue, and possibly we might continue to participate in the future as well. However, it is still premature to make any definitive commitment.

(Muhammad Anas Ahsan Mallick, Asia One News): India has issued a new political map dated 2 October 2026, reportedly standardising and renaming certain places and depicting parts of the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir as falling within Indian territorial jurisdiction. How does Pakistan view this development, and does it believe that such cartographic changes can have any bearing on the internationally recognised disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir or the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination?

Spokesperson: Pakistan categorically rejects India’s latest act of cartographic aggression, involving the purported marking and renaming of places using so-called standardised names and the depiction of parts of the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir as falling within India’s territorial jurisdiction in a purported political map, as you mentioned.

Any motivated and unilateral cartographic exercise is legally void and in clear violation of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. Such illegal actions cannot confer legitimacy on India’s occupation of large parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

No unilateral action by India can alter the internationally recognised disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. Nor can such measures prejudice the inalienable right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination, which is to be exercised through a free and impartial plebiscite under United Nations auspices.

Instead of resorting to futile cartographic exercises, India must abide by international law, fulfil its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and allow the people of illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Sir, regarding the technology being used to attack the airbase in Riyadh, do you think other proxies are involved in the war? Could countries other than Israel also be involved, given that the Houthis do not possess the level of technology being used in these attacks? Do you think a third country is also involved?

(Waseem Abbasi, Arab News): Since the conflict is escalating, there was an attack on King Salman Airport yesterday, in which three people were killed. What kind of active support is Pakistan offering as part of the Makkah Alliance and as a signatory to the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia? PIA has also suspended its flights to Riyadh, so the conflict is clearly escalating.

Spokesperson: I think the joint statement was very clear in stating that the three countries are united in ensuring deterrence and safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. You are already aware that the Secretary-General has been announced, and the three countries have decided to contribute and mobilise resources rapidly. Pakistan already has a substantial number of forces, as well as resources, in Riyadh. It is now up to the organisation to assess the threat perception and operate in accordance with its own mandate.

Providing further details on operational matters, including how the situation will be handled, would not be appropriate on my part. It would also be speculative on my part to suggest that certain countries could be involved. Of course, this is a militia that has been involved in such proxy activities and has contributed to regional instability. It has been actively fighting Yemeni forces for quite some time, and access to resources is possible these days. However, at this stage, I would not be able to provide you with specific names.

(Umer Nangiana, BBC Urdu): My question is also related to the war in Yemen. There are media reports of Pakistani fighter jets taking part in airstrikes against the Houthis. Would you confirm this? Regarding the deployment of troops, the joint statement referred to the deployment of troops, but you mentioned that substantial troops and resources are already present in Saudi Arabia. Will there be fresh deployments, or will Pakistan deploy only from the resources already available in Saudi Arabia?

Spokesperson: I think this question was also raised with the DG ISPR during a recent interview. Since 1982, the Pakistan Armed Forces have been present in Saudi Arabia in one capacity or another, sometimes under logistical arrangements and sometimes as part of training missions. Following the signing of the SMDA, the bilateral defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, last year, there has again been some deployment. At the recent SPDC meeting, the three countries decided that appropriate mobilisation would take place according to requirements. It is for the organisation and the alliance’s headquarters to decide how much deployment is required, when and where it should take place, and the countries that are part of the alliance will make the necessary contributions accordingly.

As regards your question about Pakistani fighter jets being involved in cross-border operations, this is speculative news, which has also been refuted by the Minister for Information.

(Callum Paton, AFP): Following up on my colleagues’ questions about Saudi Arabia, you mentioned that substantial forces are present in Riyadh or elsewhere in Saudi Arabia. As the Turkish Foreign Minister stated yesterday, are these forces in Saudi Arabia solely for defensive purposes, or do you see them engaging with Houthi forces in Yemen?

Spokesperson: I think this question has also been asked repeatedly in various forms, and it has been clarified on several occasions that the Makkah Alliance is a defensive organisation. It is an alliance intended to defend the three countries against aggression. Therefore, these forces would not cross the border into Yemen to launch attacks against the Houthis. However, they would, of course, be utilised to defend the country’s territory and safeguard its sovereignty.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): I have two questions. The first concerns the visit of His Excellency the Archbishop from the Holy See. During his discussions, did he express any views on the situation in the Middle East, particularly the war against Iran by Israel and the United States? What perspective did he share on behalf of the Holy See and its leadership?

My second question concerns the attacks in Saudi Arabia. Are these solely a Saudi security concern, or are they also a concern for Pakistan, given that approximately 2.5 million Pakistanis reside there, PIA flights have been suspended, and there is extensive cooperation with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia? If this cooperation is affected, does it also become Pakistan’s problem?

Spokesperson: Regarding your first question about the Archbishop, he had a useful meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister, during which the discussions covered the issues and perspectives I have already mentioned, including interfaith harmony. He is the first Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See to visit Pakistan. Pakistan has a sizeable Christian community, and, besides holding official meetings, he will also meet with the Christian community and participate in several religious rituals.

There is considerable interest on both sides in working together to strengthen relations between Pakistan and the Holy See and, of course, to protect and improve the situation of our Christian community, which is a minority community in Pakistan.

Regarding the broader context of the war in West Asia and the situation in the Middle East, all visiting dignitaries have appreciated Pakistan’s mediatory role. They see Pakistan as a factor of stability and security that has worked tirelessly towards these objectives. Our entire political and military leadership, from the Prime Minister and the President to the Foreign Minister and the Army Chief, as well as the Ministry of Interior, has been involved in every way possible to bring peace, improve stability, and de-escalate the situation. The objective is to establish peace and stability across the region, ensure that these sea lanes of communication remain open, and facilitate the resumption of supply chains.

All these efforts have been appreciated not only by the Archbishop but also by the United Nations Secretary-General, who was here, and the Foreign Minister of Bahrain.

Regarding the attacks on Saudi Arabia, this is indeed a matter of great concern for Pakistan, given that approximately 2.5 million members of our community reside in the Kingdom, and their numbers are growing. Recently, as you may have seen, a Pakistani truck driver in Yemen was also killed in a drone attack. Therefore, there is a risk of people falling victim to this escalation. That is why Pakistan has consistently advocated de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy. At the same time, we remain committed to protecting Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and providing our community with all the necessary support for their welfare.

This is indeed a matter of great concern. Fortunately, however, there have not been many casualties so far. The situation remains under control, and we hope it will improve.

(Muhammad Saleh Zafir, The News): Thank you very much, Sir. How satisfied is Pakistan with the outcome of the visit by the United Nations Secretary-General? I would also like your comments on the impression given by Indian quarters that the Secretary-General ignored questions regarding the Kashmir dispute. We observed that the Kashmir dispute was duly highlighted during the Honourable Secretary-General’s stay in Pakistan.

I would also like to ask a second question, as I do not usually get a second round. Sir, Türkiye has announced that it has not committed its troops to operations against the Houthis in Saudi Arabia, while Pakistani troops are already there, and their recent role has demonstrated the difference. I would like to know how Pakistan views the announcement made by the Turkish Foreign Minister. There is also an impression that the active role played by Pakistani troops in Saudi Arabia against the Houthis has not gone well with our neighbour, Iran. Thank you, Sir.

Spokesperson: Regarding your first question, I think I have covered it quite extensively. The United Nations Secretary-General was extremely delighted to be back in Pakistan. Upon his arrival at the airport, he mentioned that he had probably visited Pakistan more than a dozen times—around 12 times—and that he had visited three times in his capacity as United Nations Secretary-General. He was also part of Pakistan’s efforts during the 2022 floods and expressed great appreciation for Pakistan as a resilient nation.

He repeatedly mentioned Pakistan’s hospitality during his discussions. He particularly appreciated Pakistan’s role in accommodating more than four million Afghan refugees for over four decades, a situation he had witnessed firsthand during his tenure as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

His visit to UNMOGIP, the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan, reflects his view that UNMOGIP must continue its operations. It also serves as an encouragement that peace and stability in the region can only be achieved when the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is resolved in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. He clearly mentioned during discussions with our leadership that peace and stability in the region are important and that disputes must be resolved peacefully. This is what Pakistan has always advocated: war is not the solution; only peace, dialogue, and diplomacy will bring stability to our region.

Regarding Türkiye, I would not like to comment on its requirements concerning the deployment of military forces in another country’s war. However, Türkiye has signed the Makkah Alliance agreement, the MJDA. Through this agreement, it has committed itself to providing the necessary support to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the organisation. Of course, every country has its own procedures to follow, which we fully understand.

The presence of Türkiye’s Foreign Minister, Chief of Defence Forces, and Defence Minister at the meeting held on 5 October in Riyadh reflects that Türkiye is on board, and the operational requirements will be fulfilled in due course.

(Abdullah Momand, The Friday Times (TFT): Thank you, Spokesperson. Keeping in mind Pakistan’s current security landscape, including aggression from its eastern border and the ongoing hostilities with India, Pakistan now appears to be entering a new conflict involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen without parliamentary consent or a parliamentary vote. Was the Foreign Office involved in this decision, and what was its advice regarding the potential cost of this conflict for Pakistan? Do you believe this was a decision taken by the civilian government? In 2015, Parliament voted against Pakistan’s involvement in the Saudi-Yemen conflict. What is your view on this? Thank you.

Spokesperson: I would like to dispel the impression that this defensive alliance is a one-sided decision or that there has been a lack of consultation or commitment. It is a whole-of-government approach. The government is fully on board. The fact that meetings were held by the Prime Minister, followed by the recent meetings of the Strategic Political Defence Committee (SPDC), which is headed by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister and attended by the Defence Minister, demonstrates this. Both are politicians, members of Parliament, and members of the Cabinet. Therefore, the government is fully on board.

Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner of Pakistan, and this partnership is not new. The two countries have always supported each other, regardless of whether such agreements existed. These agreements have further solidified the existing ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Likewise, Pakistan’s relations with Türkiye date back to before our independence. Since then, the two countries have maintained excellent political relations and defence cooperation. The Makkah Alliance Agreement provides a forum through which all three countries can work together. It has been repeatedly clarified that this is a defensive alliance intended to consolidate capabilities for deterrence and utilise them when required.

I believe that impression is incorrect. Regarding our eastern border, we certainly face a challenge, but this is not a new one. We have been dealing with this challenge since 1947. We have fought four wars, including the Kargil conflict, and if we include the events of 2025, that would make it the fifth. We believe that India received a fair amount of treatment last year, and we hope it will not engage in such activities in the future.

Although Pakistan is one-sixth the size of India in terms of population and one-tenth in terms of its economy, Pakistan is a resilient nation, and we are prepared to defend ourselves. Men, women, the elderly, and the young are all ready to protect Pakistan, its sovereignty, and its rights. India has not been able to defeat Pakistan, and it will never be able to do so. That is what I can say.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya News): Thank you, Spokesperson. I have two questions. Since you have mentioned the Moscow Format meeting, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister stated at the meeting, and has repeatedly claimed, that Pakistan has links with ISKP and is carrying out activities in Nuristan and Badakhshan. I would like your comments on that.

In a separate statement, he said that Pakistan had not provided any evidence of the presence of terrorists at the locations targeted in its airstrikes. He also claimed that children and elderly people had died as a result of these strikes. I would appreciate your comments on both these points.

Let me also add a question to the one raised by my BBC colleague regarding the Makkah Defence Alliance. In an interview with CNN, the DG ISPR stated that our troops are in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the Makkah Defence Alliance. Subsequently, you dismissed speculation about Pakistani fighter jets operating in Yemen. Could you clarify the nature of this deployment and what these troops will be doing in the future? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Thank you very much. Regarding your first question, Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister criticized Pakistan of supporting ISKP. Pakistan categorically rejects this accusation. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the BLA, and other terrorist organisations have found safe havens in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan. The Government of Pakistan, at both the political and security levels, has also conveyed the precise locations of these terrorists. The military strikes were highly precise and targeted specific locations where these terrorists were planning and abetting further attacks against Pakistan. Therefore, these accusations are unfounded.

Regarding your point about Nuristan, this allegation has also been clearly rejected. The situation in Afghanistan needs to stabilise, and the Afghan government must take ownership of the issue and stop facilitating and supporting terrorists who enter Pakistan from Afghanistan and create problems there. When that happens, Pakistan will be happy to have friendly and good relations with Afghanistan.

Regarding your second question about Pakistani fighter jets, I have already mentioned that we have categorically rejected these reports as false.

(Ghulam Abbas Jaffar, Daily District News): I have two questions. First, is any trade taking place with Iran, or are there any sanctions in place?

My second question concerns my social media post. DG (ISPR) presented Hav. Muhammad Asif in a press conference before the media. I published the same on my social media post following which India has blocked my account, despite claiming to be a democracy. I am lodging my protest through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs platform.

Spokesperson: The gentleman has lodged his protest over the blocking of his social media post by India, in which he showed a soldier who was alive and was presented at an ISPR event ten days ago. I mean, it is indeed a matter of shame that a so-called democracy is unable to uphold freedom of speech and expression or allow diverse viewpoints to be aired.

You are not the only one. Thousands of Pakistani websites and social media accounts are blocked in India. Not only are social media accounts blocked, but all Pakistani television channels are also banned. Even our cultural ambassadors, television stars, actors, and singers, such as Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, who once used to perform in the vibrant environments of various Indian cities, now find their websites and social media posts completely blocked. So, I fully understand your frustration in this regard.

Regarding your other question about ongoing trade with Iran, I am not fully aware of the ground situation. It is important to remember that not all trade activities are subject to sanctions. I am not aware of any specific details of any illegal trade at this stage, but Pakistan will continue to follow the international regimes and sanctions. 

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): My question concerns climate change. The WMO has warned that, in the coming days and weeks, there is a threat of a Super El Niño event that could severely affect many countries, including Pakistan. What preventive measures has Pakistan taken to address these climate change-related challenges?

Sir, my second question concerns a recent World Bank report on poverty in Pakistan, which claims that 48% of the population is living below the poverty line. Do you agree with this report?

Spokesperson: I do not agree with that, because India’s population is 1.4 billion, and 800 million people there are below the poverty line. In Pakistan, there are indeed people living below the poverty line, but I would not assume that the report you are referring to is correct. If what you are saying is that 48% of the world’s poor live in Pakistan, then I would say that this does not seem possible. Perhaps I will have to look into it. I have not seen the report, so I will review it and comment only then.

Regarding climate change, it is indeed a huge issue. The government is fully seized of the challenges. Pakistan has one of the largest concentrations of glaciers in the world, and these glaciers are melting. We are also facing GLOF-related issues, which result in frequent flooding, as well as glacial outbursts that contribute to flooding downstream in northern Pakistan.

As you may recall, the government is working on climate adaptation, preparing people for these challenges, planting trees, and taking all possible measures. However, it is a huge issue because Pakistan is not a major contributor to global carbon emissions. Nevertheless, the impact of global climate change will be felt in Pakistan, which is among the ten countries globally most affected by climate-related disasters. This is a long-term process that the government will have to pursue, and we are doing so.

(Muhammad Mudassar Iqbal, Daily The Destination): Regarding overseas Pakistanis who protested outside Pakistani embassies and consulates, is there any report indicating that the concerned missions prepared lists of these individuals and forwarded them to the relevant authorities in Pakistan? There are reports that families travelling abroad are being stopped and that some may even be arrested at the airport. I believe this is an appropriate platform to address this question.

Spokesperson: Only those individuals who have been involved in violence or acts of terrorism against the government, state apparatus, police forces, or military forces have been identified, and those individuals belong to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Other than that, people have freedom of expression and sometimes express their anger through different means.

The situation is now perfectly normal, and elections were recently held. You are already aware that a new government has been formed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and things are back to normal.

(Caroline Davies, BBC): This is just a clarifying question. You mentioned that the decision regarding where troops would be deployed in Saudi Arabia and in what capacity would be made by the alliance. Does that mean there will be no vote in Parliament on whether the troops should be deployed and how they should be used?

Spokesperson: Governments make decisions in accordance with their own rules of business. The agreement has been signed, and the deployment is already in place, based on our previous agreements as well. Pakistan will follow its own rules of business, and that decision has already been taken. If there is a need to take the matter to Parliament, that would be a different matter. However, as of now, the decisions are fully covered under the law and the applicable rules of business.

(Kiran Butt, The Khorasan Diary): I have two brief questions regarding the Moscow Format. Did the Pakistani Embassy in Russia inform our incoming delegation about Russia’s increasingly favourable stance towards the Taliban?

During the Foreign Minister’s recent press briefing, he mentioned that Iran had asked Pakistan to engage politically with the Houthi militia. Has Pakistan conveyed this to both partners, and what is the follow-up on this matter, particularly given that there was a joint statement by all partners regarding military deployment?

Spokesperson: I think your first question relates to the Moscow Format. In his remarks, the Russian representative clearly mentioned that it was surprising that the same language on preventing terrorism in Afghanistan had been agreed upon last year, but the Taliban had raised objections to it this year. This reflects that even the Russians were surprised by the Taliban’s decision. When asked why they had taken this position, the Taliban replied that the ground situation has changed.

What we have observed is that the ground situation has changed in the sense that terrorist attacks emanating from Afghanistan have intensified. This means that the space previously available to terrorists to operate has expanded further, and neighbouring countries, along with the international community, must come together to address this issue. Pakistan will do its best in this regard.

Pakistan is an ardent supporter of political dialogue, diplomacy, and de-escalation. That is a given. We are not saying that diplomacy is not a solution or that we should only fight a war. We fully agree that peace can only be achieved through diplomatic means. However, this also depends on whether the other side is willing to pursue peace. If they are ready, we can consider the next steps.

At present, the Houthis appear to believe that blocking sea lanes of communication and attacking infrastructure, including holy sites in Makkah and Madinah, would give them greater influence over the overall decision-making process. In such a situation, I do not think talks would be fruitful; they would simply be futile. Therefore, the parties must first come to terms with the situation before moving forward diplomatically.

(Muhammad Annas Ahsan Mallick, Asia One News): Thank you so much, Spokesperson. I have two questions. First, as a follow-up to last week’s briefing regarding the hockey tournament update for the SCO, is there any confirmation regarding the list of participants or their participation?

Second, regarding US-Iran mediation and Pakistan’s role, now that we are discussing the operationalisation of the Makkah Defence Agreement, is it time to call an end to Pakistan’s mediation efforts between the United States and Iran? Or is Islamabad still making efforts to bring these two adversaries closer, move them away from war and conflict, and achieve a meaningful de-escalation of hostilities?

Spokesperson: I am not aware of the details at this stage. As mentioned, tomorrow is probably the last date for the submission of responses, so we should be able to provide you with an answer by then.

I think that is a good question. However, we must recognise that both countries are currently engaged in discussions and have shared seven points. More recently, reports have emerged that the US government has also shared its perspective on those seven points. The fact that the two countries are now communicating directly is a result of Pakistan’s mediation efforts.

The Islamabad MoU is already in place, and some of the points currently under discussion are fully aligned with it. Therefore, there is still a role for Pakistan, as well as for other important countries. We would like to see the two countries cooperate directly, de-escalate tensions, and reach a negotiated solution to the issue. However, if Pakistan is needed to play its role again, it would be very happy to do so.

(Raziq Mehmood Bhatti, Kashmir Express): My question concerns a member of the British Parliament who ignored human rights violations in IIOJK and attempted to highlight contemporary issues in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Is this a one-sided approach, or has the British government approached Pakistan on this matter. 

Spokesperson: There has been considerable discussion on this issue. People across the world observe Kashmir-related days, and the Kashmiri diaspora commemorates 5 February, 5 August, and 27 October with vigour as Black Day. The Kashmiri and Pakistani diasporas have played a prominent role in projecting Pakistan’s position and the legal and international support that Pakistan has extended to the Kashmiri people, particularly those in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Sometimes, such discussions also arise from the requirements of local constituencies.

Alhamdulillah, there is no such situation in Pakistan. The fact that I come from northern Pakistan and am representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here speaks volumes about Pakistan’s role in providing space and opportunities for its people.

Thank you very much.