Transcript of the Media Briefing by the Spokesperson Thursday, 13 March 2025

Thursday, 13 March 2025

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

I welcome you all at the weekly press briefing.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar attended the Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) held on 7 March 2025 in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. During the session, DPM/FM reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause; urged immediate collective action to address the ongoing Israeli atrocities against the Palestinian people and safeguard their rights, including their right to return to their ancestral homeland; condemned the proposal of resettlement of Palestinians in other countries; underscored the imperative for the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital; and emphasized on the necessity of concrete measures to realize the two-State Solution as the only means of achieving lasting peace in the region.

On the margins of the Extraordinary Meeting of Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, met with the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Palestine, Dr. Mohammed Mustafa; Secretary General of OIC, Hissein Brahim Taha; Foreign Minister of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates of Egypt, Badr Abdelatty; Advisor for Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh, Md. Touhid Hossain; Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov; and Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Sugiono.

Pakistan unequivocally condemns the Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid and halting of electricity supply to Gaza. We also condemn the continuing Israeli assault against the people of West Bank and Gaza, which has resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives, including women and children.

At a time when the people of Palestine are in urgent need of humanitarian relief and assistance, Israeli attempts to dismantle the operations of the humanitarian agencies including United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) are unacceptable. Preventing these agencies including UNRWA from carrying out their vital tasks is a manifestation of Israel’s systematic campaign to weaponize humanitarian aid and dehumanize the people of Palestine.

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in West Bank and Gaza; protection of civilians; and unrestricted humanitarian access to those in urgent need. The international community must step in to end Israel’s genocidal campaign against the Palestinians in Gaza. We also urge the international community to hold Israel accountable for its war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Pakistan denounces the Indian authorities’ decision to declare the ‘Awami Action Committee’ and ‘Jammu and Kashmir Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen’ as ‘Unlawful Association’ for a period of five years. The ‘Awami Action Committee’ is led by a prominent political and religious leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. The ‘Jammu and Kashmir Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen’ was also founded by another notable political and religious leader, Maulana Mohammad Abbas Ansari, who headed it till his demise in 2022.

The recent decision increases the total number of outlawed Kashmiri political parties and organizations to 16. Banning of different political parties and organizations is yet another manifestation of the Indian authorities’ iron-fisted approach in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). It also reflects a desire to suppress the political activities and stifle dissent. It also shows sheer disregard of democratic norms and international human rights law.

The Government of India is urged to remove the curbs on the Kashmiri political parties; release all political prisoners; and faithfully implement the UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir.

I thank you!

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(Adeel Bashir, Roze News): I have two questions. High Government and Military Officials have confirmed that the terrorists who attacked the Jaffar Express were in contact with supporters and masterminds in Afghanistan. Did Pakistan take this matter in a forceful manner at the diplomatic level with the Afghan Taliban regime?

Secondly, Indian Army Chief, General Upendra addressed questions in Indian Today Conclave and he was asked about the reports regarding growing Pakistan and Bangladesh relations. He responded as follows: “As far as I am concerned, since I have said that epicenter of terrorism is in a particular country and if that has a relationship with any of my neighboring country, I should be looking worried, because as far as I am concerned, the terrorism route can be used from that neighboring country also, which is my major concern as of today”. So, what’s Pakistan’s stance on it?

Spokesperson: Pakistan has been a victim of terrorism that is planned, orchestrated and sponsored by forces who are operating outside our borders. In our region, unfortunately, we have many forces against peace who do not want to see Pakistan reap the dividends of its unprecedented and sincere efforts in counter-terrorism and in building a peaceful region. The latest terrorist attack against Jaffar Express near Sibi Balochistan was also orchestrated and directed by terrorist ring leaders operating from abroad. Our security forces successfully eliminated all 33 terrorists, including suicide bombers, while rescuing the hostages. Terrorists were in direct communications with Afghanistan based planners throughout the incident. Pakistan has repeatedly asked the interim Afghan government to deny the use of its soil for terrorist groups like BLA for their attacks against Pakistan. We urge Afghanistan to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers, of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and cooperate with the government of Pakistan to bring all those who are concerned with this attack, including the real sponsors of terrorism to justice.

I haven’t seen the statement of Indian Army Chief, but we all know what is the root cause of instability in the region. We know how India has been trying to destabilize its neighboring countries. It has been running a global assassination campaign. I would refer to whatever the Indian army chief has said as an exercise in irony.

(Saima Shabbir, Arab News): In recent the news reports emerged that the USA travel ban will impact Pakistanis. What are the details of that ban? Has such move been confirmed by the USA and who will be impacted by this ban? Secondly, there are also reports that 10 Pakistanis were arrested on terror charges in Spain this week. Any confirmation and any further information on that?

Spokesperson: We have taken note of recent media reports claiming a possible entry ban on Pakistani nationals from entering the US. As of now, this is speculative. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our Mission in Washington are in close contact with the relevant US authorities to get any details in this regard. So far, we have not been given any indication of such a ban on Pakistani nationals.

About the arrest of Pakistanis in Spain, we were informed on 3rd March 2025, that through a coordinated operation, the Spanish police arrested Pakistani nationals in Spain, with one woman among them. The arrested individuals are accused of participating in glorification and advocacy of a political party which is considered as proscribed in Spain. Few of the individuals were allegedly managing certain WhatsApp groups involved in spreading videos and photos containing objectionable content which was in violation of the Spanish law. Following their arrest, the individuals were presented before the court. Four of them were released after initial interrogation. Later on, one woman was also released on bail by the court, the remaining are still in custody of the police. The Pakistani consulate in Barcelona has been actively engaged with the local authorities and the legal representatives to ensure rights and welfare of the detained nationals. Detailed meetings have been held with the Spanish law enforcement authorities. A formal request for consular access has already been made and is still under process. Our Consulate there is also in direct contact with the lawyer representing the detainees, offering them with full support and assistance to ensure a fair and legal process.

Initially there was a news of 14 but later news reports suggested that 10 Pakistanis were arrested. We are in the process of verifying facts. There was one arrest in Italy as well and we are in touch with the local authorities there.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Sir if you could share the details of the denial of entry into the Los Angeles Airport, USA, to the Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan. If he had all legal and valid travel documents with him then why was he denied the entry?

Spokesperson: As shared earlier, Ambassador K.K. Ahsan Wagan was on a private visit to the United States when he was detained and denied entry by the US authorities in Los Angeles airport. What is important is that, by virtue of his visa, which was a visit visa, he was not eligible for diplomatic immunity. As soon as our Consulate in Los Angeles was informed, it got in touch with the US authorities. The authorities informed that he has been held for secondary immigration screening but because of US laws, they did not share the exact reasons or the charges for which he was being put through the secondary screening. Our Missions in Los Angeles and Washington remained engaged with the US authorities. Finally, the Ambassador was allowed to fly out on the 8th March 2025. The government has taken a very serious note of the incident and on the instructions of the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, necessary action has been initiated and investigations are underway. The incident, however, was exploited by certain elements on the social media and media to generate speculative controversy, which is regrettable.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Sir, what is the update on Torkham border? Secondly, many Pakistanis are also stranded at Pakistan Iran border. Is Pakistan Iran border also closed?

Spokesperson: There has been a propaganda regarding closure of Torkham Border as if Pakistan has closed it which is contrary to the facts. As in the past, Afghan side once again tried to construct post within the Pakistani territory. We warned them that this is not allowed. We called for a flag meeting but they continued with their activities. Later there was unprovoked firing from the Afghan side on which we retaliated. The border remains closed because of this particular reason. We want the border to open but we will not allow any construction by the Afghan side on the Pakistani territory. This is a recurring incident, we have flagged it in the past and we will continue to urge Afghan authorities to not carry out these activities which hamper not only People to People interaction but also the trade between the two countries. With regards to Pakistan Iran Border, I will check.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Back to the sad incident of Jaffar Express, certain videos purported to be released by these terrorists have particularly pointed out Chinese investments in Pakistan and their message was also for China, in the context of CPEC and their other projects. Do you really think that this whole plan, as directed and orchestrated, is also against the CPEC and Pak-China cooperation? The way the world has spoken out against this heinous crime, does Pakistan feel that a larger coalition on anti-terrorism with multiple actors can be formed? Secondly, the Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has once again come up with a very controversial statement regarding Azad Kashmir, your comments on that sir?

Spokesperson: About the first question, the forces which are involved in terrorism in Pakistan are primarily anti Pakistan. They don’t want to see Pakistan stable and prosperous and are against anything which helps Pakistan achieve stability and progress. So, by virtue of China being a trusted friend and investment partner of Pakistan, CPEC becomes a target. Secondly, we have taken note of a number of friendly countries which have unequivocally condemned this heinous terrorist attack and government of Pakistan is seized of the matter. Today, the Prime Minister is going to be in Quetta to meet the local political leadership. Government is taking a multi-faceted approach in dealing with this problem.

Lastly, Remarks of Indian Defence Minister are unwarranted and delusional. They cannot divert the international attention from the well documented human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Repeated invocation of Azad Jammu and Kashmir by the Indian leaders on one pretext or another reflects an expansionist mindset. It also poses serious challenges to regional stability. Any level of development cannot condone the systematic infringement of the basic human rights in IIOJK. Instead of showing concern about the people of Azad, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian leaders should grant the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir their fundamental rights and freedoms, especially their right to self-determination.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Sir, terrorism is at its peak in Pakistan these days and Pakistan ranks 2nd as per Global Terrorism Index Report 2025. What options are left with Pakistan and on which forum of the world this situation can be resolved? My second question is regarding the reports of (Sexuality Information and Education Council the United States) SIECUS and Human Rights Watch on the internal matters of Pakistan. Need your comments on this.

Spokesperson: The Government of Pakistan is pursuing a complex and multi-faceted anti-terrorism strategy, which involves military action, intelligence-based operations and diplomatic approach. About the second question, we would not comment on the specific issue in question. However, Pakistan remains firmly committed to upholding and promoting human rights in accordance with the constitutional framework and international obligations. We have consistently taken concrete steps to ensure the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for all citizens. Our robust legal framework, independent judiciary, free media and active civil society are clear reflections of this commitment. We continue to engage constructively with the international human rights mechanisms and remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive, tolerant and just society.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Sir, two follow up questions. You mentioned that the government has taken very serious note of the incident and the Prime Minister has ordered an inquiry and so on. Hours later, we saw that the US Charge d’Affaires’ meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister at the Foreign Ministry. Was the matter of deportation taken up with the US side during the meeting? Secondly, with regards to Jaffar Express attack, which Adeel had asked, has the matter been taken up with Afghanistan and Iran diplomatically? Because last year, Pakistan conducted an operation Margbar Sarmachar against the perpetrators of BLA based in Iran. Has the matter been taken up with both the sides diplomatically? And if yes, if you could enlighten us on that?

Spokesperson: About the second question, we have just completed the rescue operation. So, I cannot comment at this point in time of what diplomatic steps have been taken, but I will brief you as soon as I have more clarity on that.

Secondly, we do not share the specifics of the Foreign Minister’s conversation. The meeting was a routine diplomatic engagement with the US side. But this issue is being handled at multiple levels and we will keep briefing you about it.

(Mateen Haider, G News): Just a broad follow up of what Anas said. In the days to come, are you planning to share all these evidences with the Afghan authorities? Because within two weeks, we witnessed first Bannu terrorist attack and then this massive terrorist attack on Jaffar Express carrying civilians as well as military passengers. Both ISPR and Foreign Office have been saying that we have urged Afghan authorities but are you planning to present a comprehensive dossier containing all evidences to Afghan authorities that these are the linkages, the elements based in Afghanistan carrying out attacks on Pakistan. Because the situation, as some of the colleagues have already said, has become more serious now.

Spokesperson: I completely agree with you about the seriousness of the issue. In the past we have been sharing very detailed intelligence information and proofs and will continue to do the same. This remains a very serious matter, and the government is seized of it. As of now, the first stage of rescue operation has been completed. The government response and policy, as evolved, will be shared in the coming days.

(Mona Khan, Independent Urdu): Sir, as Anas and Mr. Mateen said regarding Afghanistan, Security Officials have the proof of terrorists’ contact with Afghanistan. When are we taking up this issue diplomatically with Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: I cannot give you the specific dates on our engagement with Afghanistan on the matter as the whole machinery was engaged in a major heinous terrorist attack. Only the first stage is complete, and the hostages have been rescued. As more information is available on the second stage, we’ll share it with you.

(Sumaira Khan, Samaa News): Sir, my question is regarding Mr. Ahsan Wagan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan. What was his purpose of the visit? It was mentioned that he was on a private visit to the US. Why was he served with this strict scrutiny? Was he served with such strict scrutiny by the US officials in the past? Did he seek permission before going to the US from concerned authorities?

Spokesperson: He had taken leave and permission to travel to the US. The matter remains under investigation. I will share more details.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, as per the news reports and in light of your briefings, we know that right now we don’t have any dialogue with Afghanistan. We are neither at peace nor at war with Afghanistan. Is there any review of our policy towards Afghanistan? What is the current status of our policy?

Spokesperson: Our basic approach towards Afghanistan centers on trying to develop friendly, cooperative relations and this remains the key goal. We have long standing relations with Afghanistan and there are layers of complementarities between the two countries like; language, history, cultural affinity, and religion but the terrorism remains the core obstacle, which is preventing the relations to develop further. The relations between two countries are dynamic and the State keeps adjusting it. We will brief on the details in the days to come. Regarding dialogue with Afghanistan, we do not have any high-level interaction, but Embassies of both countries are working and diplomatic channels are active.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Sir, almost all the countries condemned the incident of Jaffer Express on social media. Has any country discussed with Pakistan, on diplomatic level, regarding cooperation in countering terrorism?

Spokesperson: As I mentioned earlier, we have taken note of many of our friendly countries unambiguously condemning this heinous terrorist attack. We already have very rich counter-terrorism cooperation with a number of countries. It’s an ongoing engagement and we remain in contact with our partners.

(Abdullah Momand, Dawn News): As you mentioned, the Jaffar Express event. In the past the Pakistan security agencies as well as the Pakistan Foreign Office, whenever there is an incident or event from BLA in Balochistan, we always say that India and RAW are behind these attacks, but for the first time, in the BLA context, we are using Afghanistan. So, is there a policy shift in Pakistan foreign policy? or India is using Afghan soil against Pakistan? What is the reality?
Spokesperson: There is no shift in our policy. And again, the facts have not changed. India is involved in sponsoring terrorism against Pakistan. What I was referring to was, in this particular incident, we have evidence of calls being traced to Afghanistan. This is what I said.

(Afzal Reza, IRNA): My question is regarding the Iran nuclear deal. Mr. Trump unilaterally and illegally withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Program of Action (JCPOA) in his first term, and now he’s pretending to negotiate with Iran, but he’s also threatening and imposing sanctions against Iran. The Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, yesterday, warned that Tehran will respond in the strongest way to any threat coming from any foreign aggressor. Meanwhile, Iran is also calling for revival of the nuclear deal and has asked the other parties, US and EU, to fulfill their commitments within the JCPOA, Mr. Spokesperson the unilateral sanctions also put Iran’s neighbors in a difficult position as it hampers trade between the sovereign countries. How does Pakistan see these developments regarding the Iran nuclear deal?

Spokesperson: Iran is a very important neighbor and a friend of Pakistan. We have very old and multifaceted relations with Iran. Our stability and common prosperity is possible through a peaceful region, and we support any step which could promote a peaceful resolution of all issues. We have very active cooperation and consultations with Iran on the regional and international security issues. We have extended our support to the JCPOA in the past and we would continue to prefer a peaceful outcome, a peaceful settlement of any such ongoing issues.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): What are the reasons behind terrorism in Pakistan and how this curse can be eradicated? What is Pakistan’s message to the world regarding terrorism? The Interim Afghan Government forcibly gained control of Afghanistan so does the TTP terrorist activities are backed by Afghan Interim Government and is Afghan Interim Government applying pressure on Pakistan through TTP for its recognition?

Spokesperson: Very complex question. What I can say is that, as we mentioned earlier, and our colleagues pointed out themselves that the incidents of terrorism have gone up. This remains a serious concern. And on Afghanistan, what I have been explaining before, the terrorist elements like TTP and other terrorist organizations that are operating in Pakistan enjoy sanctuaries in Afghanistan. So, this remains a stumbling block, a serious problem on the way of promoting deeper friendly relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. We have been pressing Afghan authorities to tackle and handle this problem, and we will continue to press them to take necessary actions in this regard.

(Shrouq Tariq, AFP): The Ministry of Interior has announced 31st March as the deadline set for the repatriation of illegal foreigners and ACC Afghan Holders. Can you tell, if you have shared the matter with Afghanistan on the return of the Afghan nationals.

Spokesperson: About the return of the illegal foreigners, you know about the policy, and how it has evolved. We have been pointing it out that for any foreigner living illegally in our country; the law will take its course. But specifically on Afghanistan, any Afghan with valid travel documents is welcome to visit Pakistan and stay in Pakistan as long as the validity of his visa entitles him or her. We had a special provision which the Interior Ministry press release has explained regarding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC). They were also given some extra ordinary relaxation. It was a step that government of Pakistan took, by allowing them to stay, but it was not an indefinite leave to stay. Now the government has decided that people with Afghan citizen cards (ACC) should leave the country by 31st march 2025. Beyond that, they will be deemed illegal residents in Pakistan, and the law will take its course.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, as we know that 31st March is around Eid, is there any suggestion that you might expedite the date or extend the date?

Spokesperson: No, I don’t have any such information. This is what Interior Ministry has explained through the press release. They have informed us that this is the date they have set. I don’t have any other information on that.

(Sumaira Khan, Samaa News): Sir, in the previous briefings, if you remember, we discussed KP government being in discussions and negotiations with Afghanistan. Do you have any development to share on that? Since the situation is far worse than the previous situation after Bannu attack due to Jafar Express.

Second prong of this question is that if there is any other country who is right now trying to mediate things and matters between Pakistan and Afghanistan. If you can name, any friendly country or any other third country, who is trying to resolve the situation?

Spokesperson: About the first question regarding the KPK government’s approach, I had explained to you, our position. Under the constitution, it is the domain of the federal government to conduct foreign relations. The Foreign Ministry so far, has not received any formal request from the KPK government. About the second question, regarding mediation, I’ll check. But so far, no country is involved in trying to mediate because the two countries have diplomatic relations. We are neighbors. And I think the terrorism issue is something which doesn’t require one to be ambiguous about it. There are terrorist sanctuaries which have to be handled. It is very clear cut. You know that this issue has to be addressed.

(Aamir Saeed Abbasi, Nuqta News): Sir, my question is that Pakistan has faced many cross-border terrorist attacks emanating from Afghanistan in the past and Pakistan retaliated and launched strikes against them. If such individuals are identified in Jafar Express attack, will Pakistan take cross border action?

Spokesperson: This is a speculative question. I can’t say anything, but what I can tell you is that the government remains determined to take care of this problem aggressively. We will tackle terrorism in our territory like any country would do; this is what I can say. It remains a serious problem, and the government is seized of the matter, and the government is determined to use all its resources to tackle this problem.

(Mateen Haider, G News): Just to remind you, in last briefing, I asked you that what official data Pakistan has regarding the presence of global terrorist organizations operating inside Afghanistan. Just a day before Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN also comprehensively raised this issue that Afghanistan is gradually becoming hub of global terrorism, and TTP is posing threat not only to the region, but also to the international security. How many terrorist organizations are based over there, as per Pakistan’s information?

Spokesperson: Sir, I am trying to gather information. The question is on our radar. I’ll get back to you, because there are certain aspects of intelligence-based information, publicly available information. But as soon as we have full details, I will get back to you.

(Farhan Ali, Public News): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister will be visiting Afghanistan. Is it true? And what will be the agenda and expectation of this visit? Your comments.

Spokesperson: No, this is not on the horizon right now and there are no dates in this regard.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): The Chinese Special Representative on Afghanistan was here yesterday in the Foreign Office, and he met Ambassador Sadiq. So, any specific agenda, because this visit, I think, is within few months. So, what was the issue that he came back and what was the special agenda as he came with a delegation? And could you please confirm as there was some information that Pakistan handed over four bodies of the attackers among the Bannu attack to Afghanistan, and also two more have been identified. So, could you confirm that the bodies were handed over yesterday?

Spokesperson: Sir, about the second question, I don’t have any concrete information. I will check. About the first question, this is part of a routine consultation, China is also a neighbor of Afghanistan, so nothing unusual about it. The Chinese Special Representative on Afghanistan has been visiting Pakistan. So, I would characterize it as a routine consultation between two friendly countries.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): American President Donald Trump hinted on leaving IMF and the World Bank. If such an action is undertaken, how it will affect the developing countries like Pakistan?

My second question is that in Maharashtra, India, leader of ‘Samaj Wadi Party’ made remarks on the Mughal Emperor Auragzab Alamgir which became controversial in which he said that the Mughal Emperor was not cruel. Later, he took back his remarks. But the extremist Hindus organizations are demanding the demolition of the tomb of the Mughal Emperor. We often, hear news coming from India about the demolition of historical places, so what are your comments on this?

Spokesperson: On your second question, any decent person would express his regret and sadness over this state of affairs where you want to destroy a historic building or a grave of a former Emperor. And this sets well within the pattern of larger growth of intolerance, Islamophobia in India. Much as it is regrettable, there’s nothing surprising about it.

The first question I would deem it at this point to be speculative. The US is part of the World Bank and IMF Bretton Woods system. I cannot offer any comment on that.

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): Why Kurrum Agency is besieged for the last six months and why a nuclear armed state looks helpless against a few terrorists. Roads are still blocked and the siege has dragged to the month of Ramzan. No action is evident on the action of head money placed on commanders who are responsible for this siege. Do we need international assistance to solve this problem?

Spokesperson: I’m sorry; this does not pertain to the foreign ministry. I cannot offer any comment on that. There is KPK government and Ministry of Interior who can comment on that.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Sir, a brief question. There are reports being circulated in the social media and Whatsapp groups that the Chinese Premier is visiting Pakistan next month,

What are your comments on the clarification by the US President Donald Trump yesterday that there are no plans to relocate Gazans from Gaza. They can live there.

Spokesperson: First question is important. We saw this news report, and this is fake news. The Chinese Premier last year visited Pakistan. It was a very good, successful visit. There are no plans for the visit of Chinese Premier. This is totally fake news which is being circulated on the social media.

About the second question, Pakistan has consistently expressed its strong opposition to any plan that seeks to displace the Palestinian people. Such actions would amount to ethnic cleansing and represent severe violation of international law. We view the recent developments positively and remain hopeful that the delivery of essential humanitarian aid along with the restoration of electricity supply to millions of Palestinians will resume promptly.

(Aymen Ali, SAMAA TV): US member of the Congress, Scott Perry recently has claimed that USAID has provided $136 million for building 120 schools in Pakistan but those schools have never been built. Rather, this amount is used for terrorism in Pakistan. What is your stance on it.

Spokesperson: About the specific question of whether this aid was used to build schools or not, I have to check with the Economic Affairs Division. But the second is total insinuation. I haven’t seen the statement, but even if there is such a statement, we completely reject it. USAID has its own internal controls. And you know the protocols for disbursement of the aid. This is inconceivable, and totally off the mark.

(Faisal Pasha, We News): My question is, BLA is internationally designated terrorist organization. But the way India spread its point of view in the world, are there any diplomatic consequences of such actions?

Spokesperson: Actually, what you have said is that the Indian media is kind of glorifying BLA which itself reflects the Indian policy, in some ways, if not officially. But that is the real thinking in terms of their sponsorship of terrorism in Pakistan, that’s what I can say on this.