Transcript of the Press Briefing by the Spokesperson on Thursday, 16th October, 2026

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Assalam-o-Alaikum and good afternoon

I welcome you all to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Let me start with developments concerning regional peace and security. Pakistan remains deeply concerned about the continuing attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan strongly condemns the latest terrorist attack by the Houthi militia targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. We express our condolences to the bereaved families, convey our sympathies to those injured and reiterate our solidarity with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan underscores that attacks against civilian populations and critical infrastructure are unacceptable and constitute a grave threat to regional peace and security. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and stability, including under the Makkah Agreement for Joint Defence.

In a related development, on 11 October, Pakistan joined Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye in issuing a joint statement under the R4 Group framework, strongly condemning the continuing Houthi attacks against the Kingdom, including the attack on King Khalid International Airport. The four countries reaffirmed their solidarity with Saudi Arabia, supported its legitimate measures to protect its territory and population, and called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of these attacks.

Turning to developments concerning the Palestinian issue, Pakistan joined the Foreign Ministers of 18 other countries in strongly condemning Colombia’s inauguration of its embassy in Jerusalem, describing the move as contrary to relevant UN resolutions and detrimental to the two-State solution.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On bilateral front, at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, the Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman H.E. Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi visited Pakistan. During the visit from 13–14 October 2026, the two Ministers co-chaired the 8th Session of the Pakistan–Oman Joint Ministerial Commission, reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, and agreed to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy, maritime connectivity, information technology, workforce mobility and other key sectors.

A key outcome of the visit was the signing of five agreements and MOUs, alongside the Protocol recording the proceedings of the JMC session. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international developments and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding bonds of friendship and brotherhood between Pakistan and Oman.

In another important bilateral engagement, on 14 October 2026, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also attended the meeting. The two sides reviewed the positive trajectory of Pakistan–Russia relations and discussed ways to further enhance cooperation in trade, investment, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. They also reaffirmed the importance of continued coordination at multilateral forums, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In addition to this important bilateral engagement, Pakistan has continued its diplomatic outreach through high-level contacts with other friendly countries.

On 10 October, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with the Foreign Minister of Maldives, H.E. Iruthisham Adam. The two sides discussed preparations for the forthcoming visit of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to Pakistan. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and agreed to remain in close coordination to ensure a substantive and productive visit.

Meanwhile, on 15 October, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister held separate telephone conversations with Egyptian Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Badr Abdelatty and Turkish Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Hakan Fidan to discuss regional and international developments. In his conversation with the Egyptian Foreign Minister, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional challenges and reaffirmed support for efforts to promote de-escalation.

During his conversation with the Turkish Foreign Minister, the DPM/FM exchanged views on the situation in Gaza and Palestine, as well as the agenda and strategy for the forthcoming OIC Council of Ministers meeting, scheduled to be held in Iraq. Both conversations underscored the importance of continued engagement and close coordination on matters of mutual interest to promote peace and stability.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Turning to Pakistan’s continued efforts to counter terrorism, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar addressed the International Conference on “Pakistan’s Evolving Counterterrorism Landscape: TTP, Cross-Border Threats and Regional Security” organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad on 12 October.

Addressing the conference, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, highlighting the immense sacrifices made by the Pakistani nation. He called upon the Afghan authorities to take concrete, verifiable and irreversible action against the TTP and other terrorist groups, and to ensure that Afghan territory is not used for terrorist activities against Pakistan or any other country. He also highlighted the threat posed by Indian sponsorship of terrorist groups operating against Pakistan, including from Afghan soil.

In this context, the Deputy Prime Minister outlined Pakistan’s counterterrorism measures, including the implementation of the National Action Plan, Operation Azm-e-Istehkam and enhanced intelligence coordination. He also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to advance bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation and paid tribute to the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for their courage and sacrifices.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Pakistan also continues to strengthen its engagement with the European Union on migration and mobility.

On 13 October, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Mr. Magnus Brunner. The two sides reviewed the positive momentum in Pakistan–EU relations and discussed ways to enhance cooperation on migration and mobility under the Pakistan–EU Strategic Engagement Plan.

During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to combat irregular migration, migrant smuggling and human trafficking. He emphasized that these efforts should be accompanied by greater opportunities for legal migration for Pakistani skilled workers and professionals. Commissioner Brunner appreciated Pakistan’s progress in curbing irregular migration and acknowledged the potential to expand legal migration pathways.

Pakistan remains committed to further strengthening its partnership with the European Union and pursuing practical outcomes that serve the interests of both sides.

Another important development in the field of nuclear security. The International Atomic Energy Agency’s International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) Mission to Pakistan successfully concluded on 9 October. The mission, reviewed Pakistan’s national legal and regulatory framework governing nuclear security. The IAEA team appreciated Pakistan’s cooperation, transparency and professionalism during the review. The successful completion of this first-ever IPPAS mission to Pakistan reflects our continued commitment to strengthening nuclear security and fostering international cooperation for the safe, secure and peaceful application of nuclear technology for socio-economic development.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Alongside these engagements, Pakistan is also taking practical steps to improve public service delivery.

In this regard, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Higher Education Commission and Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) on the integration of databases.

The initiative aims to streamline the attestation and verification of educational documents, enhance transparency, and expand access to digital services. By reducing delays and eliminating the need for physical visits, it will facilitate access to these services for Pakistanis.

The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated that improving consular services has remained a priority for him, including through the introduction of Pakistan’s Apostille system in 2024. He noted that the ongoing initiative is another step in the right direction towards making attestation services more accessible, efficient, and convenient for Pakistanis at home and abroad.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Finally, upon formally assuming charge at the Ministry as Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad called on Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on 12 October. The DPM/FM appreciated Ambassador Asim’s contributions during his tenure as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York and wished him success in his new responsibilities.

With that, I conclude my opening statement and will now be happy to take your questions.

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(Hussein Raza, PTV):    How does Pakistan respond to the recent provocative statement by the Indian Defence Minister threatening aggression against Pakistan, and what message would Pakistan like to convey to India in this regard?

Spokesperson:    We reject and condemn the Indian Defence Minister’s provocative remarks entailing a threat of Indian aggression against Pakistan. Such reckless statements reflect India’s hegemonistic mindset and the risks its belligerent posture poses to regional peace and stability in South Asia.

We wish to remind India the consequences of its military aggression in May last year, when Pakistan demonstrated both its capability and resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity and gave a fitting reply to Indian aggression. 

Let there be no ambiguity: Pakistan remains fully prepared to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any ill-advised aggression. Our restraint and commitment to peace must never be mistaken for weakness. Any aggression will be met with a forceful response.

India should draw an appropriate lesson from the last year’s experience and abandon its belligerent posture and dangerous rhetoric and act with responsibility for lasting peace in the region.

(Kiran Butt, The Khorasan Diary):How is Pakistan working with the EU to expand legal migration opportunities for skilled Pakistanis while strengthening cooperation against migrant smuggling and human trafficking?

Spokesperson: Pakistan has made significant progress in curbing irregular migration to Europe, with a reported 64 per cent decline over the past 18 months, according to EU figures. This achievement reflects the Government’s sustained efforts to strengthen border management, improve institutional capacity, combat human smuggling and human trafficking, and enhance international cooperation. These efforts have been appreciated by European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner.

At the same time, in interactions with the EU, Pakistan has been underlining that Migration and Mobility is one of the pillars of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan (2019) and that efforts to curb irregular migration be complemented by greater opportunities for safe, orderly, and legal migration.

In this spirit, Pakistan and EU launched Migration & Mobility Dialogue (MMD) in November 2022. The Dialogue is a win-win template since it affords an opportunity to both the sides to explore a sustainable labour mobility mechanism from a human resource surplus country like Pakistan to the EU – which is currently facing labour shortages.

Pakistan looks forward to further strengthening this partnership with the EU through a balanced approach that addresses irregular migration while expanding safe, orderly and mutually beneficial pathways for legal mobility.

(Naveed Siddiqui (Business Recorder): Sir, the introduction of new reforms in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MoFA) attestation and Apostille services is commendable and widely appreciated. Could you share details of how these reforms will benefit the general public? Additionally, could you share details of the committee’s recommendations regarding irregularities in attestation services? The committee was constituted by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) to investigate these irregularities. There were also reports that two officials of the Attestation Directorate or attestation services had been taken into custody. Could you please share further details?

Spokesperson: Regarding your question about the recent MoU signed between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Higher Education Commission, the Ministry is progressively digitizing attestation and Apostille services to make them faster, more transparent, and more accessible. I have mentioned this previously as well. E-attestation has been launched through the Ministry’s portal, while the transition to e-Apostille is also underway. This includes online applications, electronic payments, digital verification, and e-certificates.

Eligible applicants may also be exempted from appearing in person, subject to prescribed safeguards, which will particularly facilitate overseas Pakistanis. This is a significant leap forward. As I mentioned during my previous engagement, this is an ongoing process. The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister has personally steered these efforts forward, and the MoU has been signed. There will now be greater integration among all stakeholders so that the time taken for manual applications and their processing can be replaced through automation.

Regarding the second part of your question concerning the inquiry, the inquiry committee comprises members from outside the Ministry, and they are continuing their work. The committee will announce the outcome of its proceedings once the inquiry is completed.

(Muhammad Saleh Zafir, The News):China has never recognised the so-called “Union Territory of Ladakh”. The move is illegal and invalid and cannot change the fact that the relevant areas in the western sector of the China-India boundary have always belonged to China.

The above statement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Madam Mao Ning. What is your take on this, given that Pakistan is also a party to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute?

Spokesperson: India’s actions of 5 August 2019 are illegal and void and cannot alter the fact that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory, whose final status shall be determined in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News):Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the Palestinian refugees displaced form the Tulkaram refugee camp in the West Bank would not be allowed to return after the High Court of Justice ordered the Government to provide a timetable for their return. How does Pakistan view this continued displacement of Palestinian refugees from the West Bank?

Spokesperson:    Pakistan considers that continued forced displacement of Palestinians and attempts to prevent their return constitutes serious violation of international law and undermines the fundamental right of the Palestinian people. 

Pakistan reiterates its unwavering and historic stance on the Palestinian question. The international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, must intervene to halt these unlawful evictions, enforce the right of return for displaced Palestinians, and hold the occupying power accountable for its ongoing violations.

Pakistan remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination. We continue to call for establishment of a viable, independent, and contiguous Palestinian State, based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

(Mateen Haider, WE News): Sir, my question concerns the escalating tensions between the Yemeni Houthis and Saudi Arabia. The situation is very serious, and Yemeni Houthi attacks are taking place at different civilian and military locations in Saudi Arabia. How does Pakistan view this situation? Are any diplomatic efforts underway to reduce tensions between the Yemeni Houthis and Saudi Arabia? More broadly, at the level of the Muslim Ummah, is any initiative being considered that could help bring peace to the region? Please share Pakistan’s perspective on the conflict between Yemen and Saudi Arabia.

Spokesperson: Pakistan’s position on Yemen has been clear and consistent. We support the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity, and independence of Yemen and believe that the conflict can only be resolved through dialogue and through negotiations leading to a political settlement. Pakistan remains committed to diplomacy, de-escalation based on these principles, and the peaceful resolution of regional disputes. We also support all genuine international and regional efforts aimed at promoting lasting peace in the region.

At the same time, Pakistan has repeatedly condemned attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including those targeting civilian and economic infrastructure, as well as threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Pakistan has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia. This position was further underscored at the meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee of the Makkah Alliance, held in Riyadh on 5 October, during which Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye condemned attacks and threats against the Kingdom and reaffirmed their commitment to collective security and defence.

Pakistan is deeply concerned about the humanitarian and maritime consequences of this escalation and appreciates the efforts of countries working to promote peace and stability in the region.

(Waseem Abbasi, Arab News): Regarding the Yemeni Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, there are reports that several Pakistanis have been injured and that one person has also been killed. Could you share the exact number of Pakistanis injured in these attacks on Saudi airports and other civilian facilities, as well as the names of those affected?

Spokesperson: Last week, I mentioned that a Pakistani driver had been killed in Yemen. However, we now have information that one Pakistani was killed at Riyadh International Airport and that six Pakistanis were also injured. The injured individuals are receiving treatment at different locations in Riyadh, and our mission in Riyadh is in contact with them and their families back home.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Your Excellency, I have two questions.

My first question concerns the Federal Government’s imposition of an emergency and Governor’s Rule in KP, in accordance with the Constitution of Pakistan, in-line with legal courts, and the Rules of Business of Pakistan, to effectively combat terrorism. Since foreign governments communicate through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has any embassy here or any foreign government conveyed its concerns to the Government of Pakistan? Alternatively, has any government expressed appreciation for the fact that the provincial and federal governments will now collectively combat the menace of terrorism, both from within Pakistan and emanating from Afghan soil?

My second question concerns your reaffirmation of the collective commitment of Pakistan, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia to collective defence. Do you not think that the security of Saudi Arabia is now seriously threatened, given that Riyadh Airport, located in the capital, has been repeatedly closed? Is this not the time for collective action, as envisaged under the agreement, which stipulates that an attack on one would constitute an attack on all three?

Spokesperson: Your first question relates to an internal procedure based on the Constitution. I am not aware of any country having approached the Government of Pakistan to express criticism, as the measure is entirely in accordance with Pakistan’s Constitution. Of course, maintaining peace and stability in the country is a primary responsibility of the Government, which would take appropriate action. For further discussion on this matter, I would recommend that you consult the relevant ministries.

As regards your second question, Pakistan has repeatedly condemned the attacks. Pakistan is a party to the bilateral defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, and a trilateral arrangement is also in place. Pakistan will fulfill its obligations under these agreements. The Secretariat of Makkah Alliance is being established, and the Secretary-General has already been nominated and has assumed his responsibilities.

Furthermore, under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Saudi Arabia has the right to defend its sovereignty and Pakistan fully supports this provision. 

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Can you give us a deadline for when the Makkah Agreement will be practically invoked? So far, we have seen only statements from you and nothing more. When, precisely, will this agreement be practically invoked?

Spokesperson: That is a good question. At this forum, we provide policy stance on issues in accordance with Pakistan’s foreign policy guidelines. As I just mentioned, Pakistan is fully on board with the Makkah Agreement. Our Government has undertaken the appropriate steps in this regard. As for the remaining operational aspects, including deployment and action on the ground, these fall within the domain of the armed forces, as well as ISPR and, more importantly, the General Secretariat of the Makkah Joint Alliance, which will be based in Riyadh. Therefore, I would not be able to respond on their behalf at this stage regarding the steps they are taking.

(Abdullah Momand, The Friday Times – TFT): The Saudi Foreign Ministry’s Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy, Mr. Rayed Krimly, accused Iran during a briefing today, stating that Iran continues to arm, train, and support the Houthi militia in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. What is your take on this?

Also, last week, taking action against a global network allegedly facilitating the procurement of weapons and military equipment by Iran’s Ministry of Defence; sanctions have been imposed on Pakistani businessman Wasim Pasha Tajammul and three of his companies for allegedly facilitating the procurement of weapons and ammunition to Iran’s Ministry of Defence. Has the United States been in contact with Pakistan regarding this matter, and will Pakistan take any action in this regard?

Spokesperson: On your second question, it is a matter for the foreign government concerned to take appropriate action, in accordance with its laws, regarding violations in which individuals from any country may be involved. In this case, as you mentioned, Mr. Pasha was involved, it is for the other government to take appropriate action, including possible listing or other measures. However, it’s not in my knowledge.
 
I would not be able to comment on the alleged accusation against Iran that you mentioned. Pakistan is keen to see peace and stability return to the entire region, including the Middle East and West Asia, and will continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders in this regard.

There is no solution through war. Peace can only be restored through negotiations and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

(Syeda Qurat ul Ain Sherazi, Independent Urdu): This is a follow-up to Abdullah’s question. How do you respond to Iranian lawmaker Mohsen Zanganeh’s recent remarks during his visit to Kabul, in which he questioned Pakistan’s mediation between Iran and the United States and reportedly claimed that even their tweet was written by the Americans?

My second question is: How does Pakistan view the recent ban on wearing the hijab in schools in Azerbaijan and the protests it has prompted? What is Pakistan’s position on this issue, given that Pakistan continues to call for girls’ right to education in Afghanistan and women’s rights in Indian-administered Kashmir? What is Pakistan’s stance on this matter?

Spokesperson: Iran is a brotherly country, and its leadership has greatly appreciated Pakistan’s role in mediation and in bringing the Islamabad MoU to fruition. At a very critical time, Pakistan played a very important role in bringing peace and stability in the region, and we greatly appreciate Iran’s comments.

I have seen the reported remarks, but I cannot comment on their credibility. They may also have been taken out of context, as Iran’s leadership and people are grateful for Pakistan’s efforts. As you may have seen, members of Iran’s National Assembly also applauded Pakistan’s constructive role in the region. Pakistan has played a very important role in bringing peace and stability which we continue to work on to ensure that these efforts bear fruit.

Regarding your second question, I am not aware of the ban, so I would not like to comment on it at this stage.

(Zahid Farooq Malik, Daily Metro Watch): Pakistan has formally demanded that the United Nations General Assembly issue a new report on the grave situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir. Today is Friday, but Friday prayers could not be held at most mosques, and only Friday sermons were permitted at selected mosques. Moreover, the Indian authorities have recently seized residential properties and assets worth over 130 million rupees. They have also decided to establish modern military camps in Poonch and other areas. What is Pakistan’s stance on this alarming situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK)?

Spokesperson: Pakistan is concerned about the ongoing security and human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has been raising these issues at multiple forums, including at the United Nations. More recently, during the high-level segment of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly this week, the Prime Minister also highlighted the ongoing violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in his speech.

There is a need for the international community, including the United Nations, to take appropriate action. Pakistan would welcome any such report that reflects the situation on the ground, which is indeed very serious.

As you mentioned, religious leaders are not being allowed to conduct Friday prayers and deliver sermons in mosques, and access to religious practices is also being restricted, alongside other restrictions. The unauthorized laws under which Indian forces, numbering close to one million personnel, enjoy impunity to carry out attacks and other actions against innocent Kashmiris must be addressed. This impunity must end, the rights of the Kashmiri people must be respected, and the situation must be restored.

(Tahir Khan, NNI): Thank you very much, Sajjad Haider Sahib. Regarding the recent Moscow Format meeting, the Russian Foreign Minister and, subsequently, Russia’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, hinted that Russia was ready to play the role of a mediator, as Russia has repeatedly expressed concern over the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban government.

Recently, the Russian Interior Minister visited Pakistan and also visited the Foreign Office, where he met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. All previous mediation efforts, including those by Qatar and Türkiye, meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, and the meeting held in Urumqi during the first week of April, have apparently failed.

Furthermore, we have heard from people here in Islamabad that Pakistan is no longer interested in holding talks with the Afghan Taliban. In this scenario, do you see any potential role for Russia, and would Pakistan welcome or reject such an initiative? Thank you very much.

(Sumera Khan, Samaa News): Could you please shed some light on the current level of contact between Pakistan and Afghanistan? Recently, we have seen reports identifying Afghan nationals as alleged abettors, masterminds, or facilitators of recent extremist incidents in Pakistan. Afghan nationals have also reportedly been involved in terrorist activities within Pakistan.

What is the current level of information-sharing with the Afghan Taliban regime, particularly regarding credible, real-time intelligence? What information is being shared with them, and what is the current level of contact between the two sides?

Spokesperson: Thank you. Tahir Sahib asked about the possibility of Pakistan resuming substantive negotiations with Afghanistan in the context of the recent meeting held in Moscow under the Moscow Format.

Pakistan values its engagement with the Russian Federation on Afghanistan and regional security. Russia is an important regional stakeholder, and it recently held the Moscow Format meeting in Moscow, which was attended by representatives of 10 countries. These issues are regularly discussed through bilateral as well as multilateral channels.

Pakistan is not shying away from discussions or dialogue, including with representatives of Afghanistan. Pakistan would welcome any sincere efforts by friendly countries that could help address our legitimate security concerns and promoting regional peace and stability.

At present, I am not aware of any separate, formal Russian mediation initiative being under discussion. However, Pakistan remains open to constructive engagement. Such efforts should be meaningful and yield tangible progress.

Ultimately, progress would require concrete and verifiable action on the ground by the Taliban authorities against terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. If that happens, Pakistan would be very willing to participate in discussions and negotiations.

(Muhammad Saleh Zafir, The News): You have said that Pakistan has made an offer of talks to the Taliban regime. Will these talks be unconditional?

Spokesperson: The talks will not be unconditional. As asked by Tahir Khan, Pakistan has been raising the issue of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan at different forums. Unfortunately, the Taliban regime has been taking one step forward and one step backward. Pakistan has only one demand that there should be a verifiable mechanism to ensure complete cessation of terrorist activities emanating from Afghan soil against Pakistan. As regards participation at meeting under Moscow format, Pakistan was represented by Ambassador Sadiq Khan, Pakistan‘s Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Afghanistan Ambassador Ubaid ur Rehman Nizamani. 

Such engagements are ongoing and the level of contacts between the two countries, as just mentioned was at Special Representative Level. The fact that no joint communiqué was issued after the Moscow Format is self-evident that Afghanistan did not accept the formulation which had been acceptable until last year particularly about presence of terrorist network in Afghanistan. This shows that there is reluctance on the part of Afghanistan that terrorism is originating from its soil.

(Ghulam Abbas Jaffar, Daily District News): Sir, there is a report in today’s newspaper stating that more than 3,500 terrorist attacks took place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) within one year, resulting in the martyrdom of 1,150 people. These figures relate to just one province, KP, and do not include Balochistan.

Terrorist incidents are occurring on such a massive scale in Pakistan, yet we feel that we are not receiving the level of international support that Pakistan deserves in the fight against terrorism. What is the reason for this? Even though we have evidence, such as the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav, regarding the involvement of countries, including India and Afghanistan, why are we still deprived of international support in this regard? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Indeed, this is one of the biggest challenges that Pakistan is facing. We are confronting terrorism in both Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, much of which originates from Afghanistan. Pakistan has been identifying these threats and sharing relevant information with its international and bilateral partners.

In my opening remarks, I mentioned that the Deputy Prime Minister recently addressed a seminar in Islamabad attended by participants from Pakistan and abroad, including representatives of various embassies. Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and terrorism must come to an end.

We have clearly highlighted the alleged role of the Afghan authorities, as well as Indian proxies, in creating law-and-order situation and facilitating terrorist and extremist activities in Pakistan. We therefore urge the international community to recognize the gravity of the current situation, which is affecting Pakistan and, God forbid, could escalate in any direction.

We need to promote peace, stability, and security within Afghanistan, and the international community must come and act together.

(Muhammad Mudassar Iqbal, Daily The Destination): Thank you. I have a question related to Afghanistan. A report by Afghan Times is circulating across various media outlets and social media platforms, stating that PTI leader Murad Saeed has been in the news recently and that he is reportedly present in Afghanistan. Does the Foreign Office confirm or deny these reports about his alleged presence in Afghanistan? Has there been any such contact?

Spokesperson: We do not have any information on this.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Could you please update us on the current trade status between Pakistan and Iran, as well as Pakistan and Russia? Given that Pakistan currently enjoys very good relations with the United States, particularly with President Trump, and that the US has expressed considerable interest in Pakistan’s natural resources, including its mineral reserves, which are estimated to be worth trillions of dollars, could you share any updates in this regard? Have any discussions taken place between Pakistan and the US on this matter?

Spokesperson: Pakistan is wishes to have mineral reserves estimated at approximately $7 trillion, and we are making efforts to attract investment from across the world. In this regard, any company or country interested in investing in Pakistan would be welcome.

The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has been established to facilitate investment. Investment in any country is a normal practice that can contribute to its overall development. Having mineral reserves is one thing, but exploring and developing them is essential to realize their full potential and extract benefits from these resources.

Pakistan is keen to attract greater investment in our mineral reserves from across the world. Our efforts are not limited to any one country. We welcome countries that have the capacity, willingness, and resources to come forward and invest in Pakistan. Thank you.

(Sardar Shaukat Mehmood, Islamabad Today): What are Pakistan’s current standing in the ongoing tense situation between U.S. and Iran? 
Spokesperson: I believe our policy is clear: all countries must work together to promote peace and stability. When a problem arises in our neighbourhood, its impact is not confined to that particular area; it affects the entire region.

As you have seen, the closure of maritime routes disrupts transportation and interrupts supplies. Therefore, it is important for countries to come together, hold discussions, and find a diplomatic solution to ensure the smooth movement of goods and the continuity of supplies.

Pakistan will support all measures aimed at de-escalating the situation and improving it through mutual understanding and diplomacy. We will continue to make efforts in this regard.

(Muhammad Anwer Abbas, 24 News): I am Anwar Abbas from 24 News. Sir, I would like to know three things. First, the United Nations Secretary-General elections are just around the corner. First of all, how many candidates are there, and which candidate will Pakistan lean toward in the elections? Secondly, I would like to know about Asif Merchant, Pehlwan, and around four to five other Pakistanis who have been in the United States for about a year and a half. Has the U.S. government made any contact with Pakistan regarding them? There were allegations against them, and they are also in custody. Sir, my last question is regarding the civilians who are being killed in Yemen due to Saudi bombings, who are not Houthis. What would you say regarding them? Thank you.

Spokesperson: I think the election of UN Secretary General is a very discreet process in which member countries consider all the applicants. Nearly all six applicants they visited Pakistan and they met with our leadership. Internal procedures bar us from divulging to whom we finally vote. Regarding the names that you gave, I’m not aware of the current situation. So with this, I think thank you all for coming, and, we’ll see you next week.