Transcript of the Media Briefing by the Spokesperson on Friday, 23rd May 2025

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

I welcome you all at the weekly press briefing.

Pakistan categorically rejects the baseless, provocative, and irresponsible allegations made by the Indian Prime Minister during a recent public address in Rajasthan.

The remarks, replete with distortions, misrepresentations, and inflammatory rhetoric, are clearly aimed at stoking regional tensions for narrow political gains.

Such statements not only reflect a deliberate attempt to mislead the public but also violate the norms of responsible statecraft. Resorting to threats and boasting about military action against a sovereign nation is a grave breach of the United Nations Charter and established principles of international law. This dangerous approach undermines regional peace and stability.

Pakistan remains a consistent and proactive partner in the global fight against terrorism. Any insinuation seeking to associate Pakistan with acts of terrorism is factually incorrect and patently misleading. It is a tactic often employed to divert attention from India’s own internal challenges, as well as its repressive policies in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

India’s attempts to mask its serious human rights violations are well-documented and well-recognized by the international community. The plight of the Kashmiri people and their just struggle for self-determination cannot be obscured by aggressive rhetoric and political deflection.

Pakistan urges the Indian leadership to exercise responsibility and restraint. Escalatory statements and belligerent posturing serve no purpose other than exacerbating tensions. Rather than resorting to fictitious narratives and warmongering for electoral mileage, India should demonstrate maturity by resolving outstanding disputes through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy.

Pakistan remains firmly committed to peaceful coexistence, regional stability, and constructive engagement. However, our desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness. The people of Pakistan and its armed forces are fully prepared and capable of defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Any misadventure or aggression will be met with a resolute and proportionate response. Pakistan has demonstrated its resolve in the past and will do so again, if required.

The international community must take serious note of India’s aggressive posture and hate-driven narratives that threaten regional peace. It is imperative to discourage such rhetoric and actions to preserve stability in South Asia. Glorification of conflict benefits no one, and the path to lasting peace lies in dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held telephone conversations with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, and President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.

While strongly condemning India’s unprovoked attacks against Pakistan that led to martyrdom of innocent civilians, including women and children, the Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s valiant Armed Forces’ responsible, measured yet befitting and forceful reply to the enemy. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs. He also expressed his concern over India’s attempt to unilaterally hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance and emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains the root cause of instability in South Asia.

Developments in the Middle East, particularly the alarming situation in Gaza, were also discussed. The PM urged the international community to ensure consistent and timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza. He also hoped that the upcoming UN Conference on Two-State Solution next month would yield meaningful outcomes.

On the invitation of the Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, undertook an official visit to Beijing from 19 to 21 May 2025.

During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister held in-depth discussions with the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, and Minister of International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), Liu Jianchao, on the evolving regional situation in South Asia and its implications for peace and stability.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Member of the CPC Political Bureau & Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, also held an informal trilateral meeting during the visit in Beijing. During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar also held meeting with Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Beijing.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly rejected the unfounded allegations circulating in certain segments of the Indian media, which falsely claim that Pakistan employed the Shaheen missile during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos (BM).

These claims originated following the release of a video by the Indian Army’s official Twitter handle, purportedly showing the use of Pakistan’s Shaheen missile. Upon realizing that the claim was unsubstantiated, the Indian Army promptly deleted the misleading video. However, by then, sections of the Indian media had already amplified the false narrative without verification. Regrettably, some Indian outlets continue to propagate this misinformation.

Disseminating unverified and inflammatory content not only undermines regional stability but also reflects poorly on the professionalism of official institutions.

Pakistan categorically rejects the allegations that Pakistan attempted to target the Golden Temple, the most revered place in the Sikh faith. We hold all places of worship in the highest esteem and cannot think of targeting a holy site like the Golden Temple.

In fact, it was India that targeted different places of worship in Pakistan in the intervening night of 6 and 7 May 2025. The allegations leveled by the Indian side cannot shift attention from this unacceptable act.

Pakistan is the proud custodian of many holy sites of the Sikh faith. Every year, it welcomes thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the world. Pakistan also provides visa-free access to the Gurdwara Sahib Kartarpur through the Kartarpur Corridor. In that backdrop, any claim concerning Pakistan’s attempt to target the Golden Temple is absolutely baseless and incorrect.

Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the continued Israeli aggression in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians, as well as deliberate targeting of hospitals and other critical infrastructure, along with mass evacuation orders.

The expansion of Israeli ground operations in Gaza, as well as its announcement to “take control of all” of Gaza, poses a grave threat to efforts aimed towards achieving peace and stability in the region. In addition, Israel also continues to deliberately obstruct critical humanitarian aid from reaching millions in dire need. Pakistan reiterates its call on the international community for an immediate end to Israel’s genocidal campaign, and to ensure a lasting ceasefire in Gaza. It also urges concrete steps towards provision of unimpeded humanitarian supplies to millions of Palestinians in dire need, as well as to hold Israel accountable for its egregious crimes.

Furthermore, Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal opposition to any attempts to displace the Palestinians from their ancestral lands, expand illegal Israeli settlements or to annex any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
I thank you.

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(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News): Sir, the statements which are emanating from India, they are talking of belligerency, and it’s very satisfying that ceasefire is holding. Don’t you think that this sort of rhetoric could harm the atmosphere in which this ceasefire is existing, and what is your assessment that when that stage can come, when the two countries will engage with each other on the table?

Spokesperson: About the first question, Sir what you are saying is absolutely correct and unexceptionable. At a time of heightened tensions in the region, it is highly imprudent to indulge in this kind of rhetoric, which is inflammatory and provocative. We have cautioned India on repeated occasions to desist from this. With regards to ceasefire, ceasefire is holding, and we are fully committed to it. Lastly, with regards to the third part of your question, we are engaging in the whole process in good faith. We approach this with positivity and are committed to make this ceasefire continue to hold, de-escalation to succeed and then engagement to lead to stability and resolution of issues. We will remain committed to that. But if this rhetoric is a prelude to any threat in the region, our armed forces are ready to deal with any eventuality.

(Zeeshan Syed, Neo TV): Sir, can you share some information regarding the expected visit of the Prime Minister to Iran, about hostilities between Pakistan and India? Details of the delegation accompanying the Prime Minister? Secondly, would it be a bilateral visit or similar to our latest visit to China during which some important agreements were concluded? Or would this visit be just regarding the situation between Pakistan and India?

Spokesperson: We will issue a statement regarding Prime Minister’s visit in due course. Overall, we have been engaging with all countries, including Iran, which is a friend and an important neighbor. We have kept them informed about the developments in the region, just like we have informed other friendly countries including Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council.

(Raziq Mahmood Bhatti, Daily Kashmir Express): Sir, even after ceasefire the issue of water remains. Even today the water is suspended. Your comments on this?

Secondly, the situation for the people of IIOJK has worsened even more as the citizens are being abducted and shahadas are increasing each day. Have you discussed about this situation at any forum?

Spokesperson: About Indus Water Treaty, we have continued to highlight our principled position on many occasions. There is no provision in the Indus Water Treaty which can allow for suspension or abrogation of the Treaty unilaterally and we will continue to work with the international community to highlight the perils involved in India pursuing this course of action. We would work to ensure Pakistan continues to receive its rightful share of the water under the Indus Water Treaty.

Human rights violations in IIOJK are becoming increasingly visible to the international community. We have been highlighting this issue, particularly after this recent Pahalgam incident. We also have seen an uptick in the repression by occupying Indian armed forces, inside Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and we would continue to raise these issues, highlight the gravity of human rights violations in IIOJK to the International Community.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): Sir, can you tell us about the mandate of the Committee constituted by the Prime Minister under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari? Details including like when will the committee start working, countries of their visit?

Spokesperson: Decision has been taken in principle but there are certain details which are currently being worked out in terms of the logistics, dates, timings etc. As soon as details are firmed up, we will share with you.

(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD): Sir, India is persistent in its decision of revoking Indus Waters Treaty. In this situation, can Pakistan approach the World Bank which is a guarantor? Will the Foreign Office approach the World Bank directly or via Indus Water Commissioner? Secondly, if India persists on its claims, would Pakistan be able to claim its rights on all five rivers?

Spokesperson: On the Indus Waters Treaty, our position remains very clear. After the National Security Committee’s meeting, Pakistan’s position was articulated with great clarity that we will continue to work to ensure that Pakistan continues to receive the rightful share of its waters. There are six rivers on the Indus Basin, not five rivers. There is no legal provision in the treaty which allows any of the parties to abrogate it unilaterally or suspend or amend. This is completely illegal on India’s part. Pakistan will continue to work to ensure to secure Pakistan’s rights on its rightful share.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Quick follow up on the Indus Water Treaty. Sir, since you have mentioned that Pakistan will do what it takes to safeguard its water. Does Pakistan plan on invoking Article (9) of the Treaty, a provision to take the other party to the court of arbitration? Is there any such measure as India has been saying it constantly that it will continue to hold the Treaty in abeyance.

Spokesperson: I forgot to answer Anwar Saab’s last part of the question regarding, if required, who would approach the World Bank, Indus Water Commission, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: It would be the Government of Pakistan.
About your question sir, things are under discussion. We will share details once finalized.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, during the Pakistan India standoff, we read the reports about closure of Kartarpur corridor. What is the latest status of the corridor? Are we going to reopen it?

Spokesperson: This is a very important question, thank you for raising this. Pakistan has never closed the Kartarpur corridor despite recent hostilities with India. However, the Indian side is not allowing pilgrims to avail the pilgrimage facility since 7th May 2025. As always, we are ready to welcome the pilgrims from the Indian side. As far as Pakistan is concerned, Kartarpur corridor stays open.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): Sir, yesterday I asked a question during the Press Conference of the DPM/FM about up-gradation of relations with Afghanistan and the response gave the impression that there would be a due process regarding this development. I cannot recall if any such thing has happened in the past like through Charge‘d Affaires or not. How much time will the due process take? Additionally, what is this due process?

Spokesperson: Sir, what the Deputy Prime Minister meant was that it requires our own internal consultations. Inter-Ministerial Consultations are ongoing. After consultations with all relevant Departments and Ministries, we will firm up our position about when and how to go ahead. The Embassies in both capitals are working at the level of Charge d’ Affairs and diplomatic channels are open. The two Governments are in touch with each other at multiple levels. I want to further highlight that just because the Embassies are not working at the Ambassadorial level, it does not mean that our diplomatic interaction is impaired in any way. We have very robust interactions going on with the Afghan side.

(Shaukat Piracha, Aaj News): After the recently held Pakistan-Afghanistan-China trilateral meeting, it was the Chinese side which said that Pakistan and Afghanistan, have agreed in principle to elevate the representation level. We know that Charge’d Affairs are working in both the countries. When Pakistan sends its full Ambassador and receives a full Ambassador, will it then be equated to recognition of the Taliban Government in Kabul?

My second question is that obviously a threat remains of escalation again between India and Pakistan, and the threat perception is real and genuine. At a time when the ceasefire is in effect, these threatening statements continue to emanate from India, when there were interlocutors involved who managed the ceasefire, I am talking of the State Department, Marco Rubio, JD Vance and President Trump. Whether they are being approached that we are maintaining this ceasefire, but India is determined to harm it? Is there any diplomatic activity going on? Thank you.

Spokesperson: About the first question, because it is a hypothetical question at this point in time, but I agree with you that the two sides in principle have agreed to elevate the relations but we need a bit of more time for inter-ministerial consultations, which are going on. So, I am not in a position to answer what that means. So this is a question of law, but I need to consult our legal division on that.
About the ceasefire, what I can say is that there are three aspects to it. Number one, ceasefire is holding and it is working. The two militaries have a channel of communication through the Directors General of Military Operations, through which they are working for de-escalation, in terms of the movement of troops. The third point is that about the rhetoric and the statements, these are most regrettable. In terms of our position, I can state that Pakistan remains committed to ceasefire announced on 10th May 2025 and lately, both sides have taken steps for de-escalation and return of stability. However, we have made it clear that Pakistan will respond in a befitting manner in case India takes any aggressive action once again. So this basically sums up our position.

(Memoona Saleem, Khyber News): Sir, President Donald Trump has made a comment during his press interaction at the White House that US is concerned due to fragile peace between India and Pakistan. It has also played role of a mediator to de-escalate the tensions between the two countries. Furthermore, he also talked about a transactional diplomacy, and said that they have started negotiations with India regarding trade, and soon they would start negotiations with Pakistan. So has this initiative been taken from the US side?

Spokesperson: First about the broader US role, we welcome that it has played a very positive and important role in managing these hostilities when the region was at the cusp of a very dangerous situation. We appreciate the proactive role played by President Trump and his administration in brokering the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India. Pakistan remains committed to faithful implementation of ceasefire, notwithstanding the violations being committed by India in terms of the rhetoric, the spirit of the ceasefire, but we remain committed. As I mentioned earlier, the ceasefire continues to hold.

About trade, what I can say is that the United States, even before the crisis, was our biggest export destination. Historically, it has been a very important trading partner with us. After the US move to impose sanctions at a global scale, there are active consultations going on within our government under the directive of the Prime Minister, so in the terms of details the Ministry of Commerce can guide you on that.

(Zeeshan Syed, Neo TV): Sir, regarding the committee under the supervision of Bilawal Zardari which PM formed on Pak-India tensions, news emerged yesterday that committee has been bifurcated. Hina Rabbani Khar will lead one half of the delegation to the US and Bilawal Zardari will lead the delegation in European countries. Did the committee inform Foreign Ministry about it or is the committee independent or this committee will receive directions from the Foreign Ministry and then it will lay out a plan and implement it?

Spokesperson: As I explained earlier also during the briefing, we are working on it. Things are being firmed up. As soon as it is finalized and settled, we will brief you.

(Asif Shahzad, Reuter): You just said that the DG (MO)s are working on bringing the troops back to de-escalation position. Can you please elaborate a little more? What does that mean? Does that mean bringing back forces to peace time position? And if so, there are no fears of any more escalation from the Indian side?

Spokesperson: First step is de-escalation. What I meant was once a ceasefire takes place, the second step is de-escalation. De-escalation entails a number of steps. It is a complex process. So, both the militaries are in touch. I will refer you to ISPR for more details on that.

(Abdullah Mohmand, DAWN News): Indian media has reported that the Indigo flight which was flying from New Dehli to Srinagar was denied entry into Pakistan after the flight was caught suddenly in a hailstorm, and the entry was denied by the Lahore Air Traffic Control Authority. What is your take on this?

Spokesperson: I have seen the news report. We are getting in touch with the concerned department, and as soon as we receive feedback, I will share it with you. I can just state the basic facts right now i.e. the Pakistani airspace is closed for Indian aircraft. But regarding the details of this incident, we are in the process of collecting facts, particularly from the concerned department. So as soon as we have information, we will share it with you.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): As you mentioned that DGMOs from both sides are in touch. When we are going to hold the flag meetings on the Line of Control and on the working boundary?

Spokesperson: About this, I am not in a position to give you a definite response. ISPR is the right forum for that. Normally DGMO is a senior channel which takes a holistic view of things. Any incidents that take place, DGMO look at the picture comprehensively. So particularly after this Indian aggression and our subsequent response, the two DGMOs have been working, as this channel was effective to work out the ceasefire. So they are working, but for details, I will refer you to ISPR.

(Syeda Qurat ul Ain Shirazi, Independent Urdu): There were reports regarding Pakistan extending the airspace ban for Indian flights by another month. So it was run by news sources two days ago. Can you please confirm or deny this news?

Spokesperson: I have no comments on that. I have no information on that, but I will check and I will get back to you. Just like this earlier question by Mohmand Saab, we are in the process of gathering information, but as far as we are concerned, so far, our airspace is closed for Indian aircrafts.

(Aftab Jahan, News One TV): Previously a question was asked to Foreign Minister in which he stated that for Afghan immigrants, ‘One Document Regime’ is going to be introduced in which visa will be given to them for a year priced at $100. I want to clarify my confusion on this. Will ‘One Document Regime’ also be applied to Afghan immigrants who are living in Pakistan and are in the process of repatriation or it will be applicable on those Afghan citizens who want to come to Pakistan? Thank you.

Spokesperson: I need to check on this. I want to be sure when I answer you on this.

Thank you.