Assalam-o-Alaikum,

 

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

We could not hold last week briefing due to traffic restrictions around the red zone. So, I will briefly sum up the developments in the last two week before opening the floor for questions answers.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

 

Let me begin by very disturbing news coming from our international border with Afghanistan.  

 

In the border areas of South Waziristan adjacent to Bannu district, including Angoor Adda: Afghan forces carried out unprovoked firing and shelling on April 26 and 29, 2026, targeting civilian populations.

 

As a result of these incidents, several people were injured and multiple houses were damaged during the attacks. Among the injured were women and children aged 3, 8 and 10. 

 

Local tribal elders and residents have expressed serious concern over these incidents, condemning the cross-border firing and shelling from Afghanistan and demanding that it be stopped immediately.

 

It is worth noting that similar incidents of cross-border firing and shelling have been reported in this area before, in which civilians were injured.

 

Strongly condemning these attacks from Afghanistan, we expressed sympathy and solidarity with the affected families. All possible measures are being taken for their assistance. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety of local populations and prevent further incidents.

 

Moving on to the Middle East: Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic engagement in supporting de-escalation, ceasefire efforts, and the broader pursuit of stability between the United States and Iran continue. Our sustained interaction with both Washington and Tehran was maintained in the last two weeks. 

 

Pakistan remains committed to regional stability and international peace, reflecting our preference for principled, dialogue-oriented diplomacy in addressing complex geopolitical challenges and managing complex disputes. 

 

In this context, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammad Shahbaz Sharif, with the active involvement of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan has maintained open channels of communication with the concerned parties. 

 

Let me highlight some key markers of these highest-level engagements. 

 

ENGAGEMNETS OF THE PRIME MINISTER

 

19 April 2026:  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Held Telephone Conversation with His Excellency Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

 

During their warm and cordial conversation that lasted for around forty-five minutes, our Prime Minister apprised the Iranian President about his own recent engagements with a number of world leaders, including the leadership of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye. The Prime Minister also thanked the Iranian leadership for their constructive conversations with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during the latter’s visit to Tehran this week.

 

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that, with the support of friends and partners, Pakistan would remain fully committed to its honest and sincere efforts to advance regional peace and security. He also conveyed his respectful regards for the Supreme Leader, His Eminence Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

 

On April 16, the Prime Minister was in Saudi Arabia for extensive consultations the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

 

Our media colleagues extensively covered the visit. 

 

The Prime Minister shared developments related to Pakistan's peace efforts that led to the U.S.- Iran ceasefire and the recently held round of historic talks between the U.S. and Iran in Islamabad. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince appreciated the  constructive role of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as well as of Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister in the peace process.

 

While exchanging views on bilateral issues, the Prime Minister expressed his sincere appreciation for His Royal Highness the Crown Prince for the Kingdom's consistent support to Pakistan's economic stability. The Prime Minister also highlighted that Pakistan and the Kingdom enjoyed a unique relationship as they were both strategic defense partners under the Pakistan- Saudi Arabia Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement. 

 

Later on 16 April, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharifq was in Doha to hold for a cordial meeting with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar.

 

His Highness the Amir expressed his deep appreciation for Pakistan’s pivotal role in supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and promote diplomatic dialogue in a manner that serves regional security and stability.

 

For his part, the Prime Minister of Pakistan renewed his strongest condemnation of the attacks against Qatar and other Gulf countries, while reaffirming Pakistan’s full solidarity and support the leadership and the people of Qatar. 

 

For the final leg of his three nation tour, the Prime Minister was in Antalya, Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

 

On the sidelines of the Forum, the Prime Minister met Turkish President H.E Rajab Tayyab Erdoğan. 

 

President Erdoğan praised the Prime Minister’s peace efforts and said Türkiye would continue to support Pakistan’s diplomatic initiative to bring peace to the region. 

 

The two leaders emphasized the importance of effectively utilizing the current window of opportunity to advance a durable and lasting regional peace. 

 

Upon his return to Islamabad 19 April 2026, the Prime Minister held his second telephone conversation with the President of Iran in three days. The Prime Minister apprised the President Pezeshkian about his recent engagements with a number of world leaders, including the leadership of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye. The Prime Minister reaffirmed that, with the support of friends and partners, Pakistan would remain fully committed to its honest and sincere efforts to advance regional peace and security. 

 

President Pezeshkian thanked the Prime Minister and the Field Marshal for Pakistan’s strong commitment to the success of the peace efforts, while affirming that relations between Iran and Pakistan would continue to grow stronger in the days ahead.

 

Later that day, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call from H.E. António Costa, President of the European Council.

 

During their cordial conversation, the two leaders exchanged views on the current situation in the Middle East. The Prime Minister shared with President Costa the latest updates on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and peace efforts. President Costa expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive efforts.  

 

Both leaders stressed on the need to continue with dialogue and diplomacy to ensure lasting regional and global security. In this regard, the two leaders also agreed to remain in touch.

 

On 25th April, the Prime Minister held another telephone call with President Pezeshkian. In this 50-minute conversation, the two leaders had a detailed exchange of views on the current regional situation and ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

 

The Prime Minister welcomed Iran's decision to send a delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad, that held important meetings earlier, including a detailed two-hour meeting with the Prime Minister.

 

You may recall that the two visits of the Iranian FM over the weekend afforded us to the opportunity to hold meetings with senior leadership to discuss the latest regional developments as well as ongoing efforts for regional peace and stability. 

 

President Pezeshkian thanked the Prime Minister, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar for their significant contribution to the peace efforts. 

 

On 26 April, the Prime Minister held a telephone call with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon.

 

Prime Minister Luxon expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic initiatives. The two leaders also agreed to work together to strengthen Pakistan-New Zealand bilateral relations. 

 

The Prime Minister extended a warm and cordial invitation to Prime Minister Luxon to undertake an official visit to Pakistan, at his earliest convenience.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, you are aware, the European Union Business Delegation was in Pakistan while some are still here these days. The delegation has held business conferences, met their business counterparts and senior government officials. On 28 April, EU business delegation called on the Prime Minister. 

 

The delegation members spoke about their respective experience of investments in Pakistan and stated that there was enormous potential for further growth of these B2B ties between the EU and Pakistan in various sectors, including energy, communications, IT, etc. More than 600 B2B meetings are expected on the sidelines of the EU-Pakistan Business Forum.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, moving on to some key engagements of the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar: He accompanied the Prime Minister to the three-nation visit from 16-18 April. 

 

On the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, the DPM/FM met:

 

1) FM of Turkey

2) British Foreign Secretary

3) FM of Egypt 

4) Foreign Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), 

5) Vice Minister for Strategy and Intelligence at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea.

6) President and Chairman Board of Directors of Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEIK)

 

A milestone event in Antalya was the meeting Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt. This was the third consultative meeting of Group – R-4 as we call it now. You may recall that the second FM-level meeting of R-4 was held in Islamabad last month. Pakistan had hosted the Senior official meeting of R-4 in Islamabad on 14 April. 

 

At Antalya, the R-4 FMs exchanged views on evolving regional dynamics, reaffirming the vital role of dialogue and diplomacy in promoting peace, stability, and shared prosperity. The Foreign Ministers expressed a shared commitment to advancing this partnership, deepening coordination and expanding collaboration across key areas of mutual interest.

 

At Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026, DPM/FM addressed the panel “Trading Trust: The Future of Economic Integration and Stability in South Asia,”.  Among other issues, the he highlighted the role of platforms such as SAARC and the United Nations, while also reiterating the need for resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UNSC resolutions to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region. 

 

Moving on DPM/FM telephone Calls:

 

April 19, 2026

 

1) Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign 

2) FM of Iran Abbas Aragchi

3) Canada’s Foreign Minister 

4) Foreign Minister of Egypt, 

 

April 20 , 2026

 

1) Foreign Minister of Australia 

2) Foreign Minister of Iran. 

 

April 21, 2026

 

1) Egyptian Foreign Minister 

2) Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia

 

April 22, 2026

 

1) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidaan. 

2) Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic, Jeenbek Kulubaev. 

 

April 24, 2026

 

1) Foreign Minister of Iran 

2) Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation. 

 

April 25, 2026

 

1) Egypt’s Foreign Minister. 

2) Foreign Minister of Türkiye. 

 

April 27, 2026

 

1) Canadian Foreign Minister 

2) UK Foreign Secretary. 

3) Egyptian Foreign Minister. 

 

April 28, 2026

 

1) Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres. 

 

April 29, 2026

 

1) UK Foreign Secretary H.E. Yvette Cooper 

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

 

Moving to Israel, Palestine: 

 

Pakistan joined a group of countries to issue two Joint Statements in the least two weeks, First on April 18, 2026 on -- we issued two Joint Statements on Israel’s announcement of the appointment of a diplomatic representative to the so-called “Somaliland” 

 

Second on 23 April 2026 - condemning the repeated violations of the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites by Israeli occupation authorities, particularly the continued incursions by Israeli settlers and extremist ministers into Al-Aqsa Mosque/Al-Haram Al-Sharif under Israeli police protection, as well as the raising of the Israeli flag within its courtyards.

 

Separately, we also issued a statement condemning Violation of Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound. Finally, as we speak, the President Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari is in China. He is returning tomorrow. We issued a curtain raiser on his visit and you have been covering his engagements there. 

 

The visit is part of the longstanding tradition of high-level exchanges between Pakistan and China and holds special significance in the context of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

 

Thank you

 

***

 

(Hussain Raza, PTV): I have basically two questions, a designated NIA Court in Occupied Jammu extended the remand of separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah till May 6 in connection with the three-decade old terror case. I need your comment on this as well as Tada, Court has dismissed an application filed by illegally detained Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Mohammad Yassin Malik. My second question is, Jammu and Kashmir has banned Education Group Siraj Ul Uloom over Jamaat links, what are your comments on this?

 

(Raziq Bhatti, Kashmir News): Sir, there are restrictions imposed on a Madrassa in Shopian again and secondly, you may have seen a heartbroken scene that Liaqat Ali Khan’s (late) dead body was placed on the other side of the river and this trend has started where they can’t even attend funerals. Is there any solution of this?

 

Spokesperson: Pakistan expresses serious concern over the re-arrest and continued extension of a three-decade-old case against distinguished Kashmiri leader Shabir Ahmad Shah. Shabir Shah Sahib has remained incarcerated on fabricated charges for seven consecutive years, in addition to earlier periods of detention. We understand that he has been diagnosed with cancer. Harsh prison conditions and lack of access to basic amenities are further aggravating his plight.

 

We call upon India to end the sham trial of Shabir Shah Sahib, as well as similar proceedings against other Kashmiri leaders. We have also noted media reports regarding the dismissal of the appeal of Muhammad Yasin Malik by a TADA court. Pakistan expresses serious concern over the continued detention of Yasin Malik since 2019, as well as the denial of fair trials in politically motivated cases against him and other members of the Kashmiri leadership.

 

India’s judicial system, which has been seen to grant relief to terrorists and individuals such as Aseemanand and Colonel-turned-Brigadier Purohit, while incarcerating Kashmiri Muslims like Shabir Shah, must reflect on its adherence to principles of justice and impartiality. We urge the international community to take cognizance of the situation and to play its role in pressing India for the immediate release of Shabir Ahmad Shah, along with other political prisoners, human rights defenders, and dissenting voices.

 

Pakistan strongly condemns the illegal and illegitimate actions of Indian occupation forces in connection with the reported ban and sealing of Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom under the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Banning this educational institution is a flagrant injustice to poor and underprivileged communities, given its role in providing accessible, quality education to those unable to afford private schooling. Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom has produced reputable doctors and professionals who have served society with dedication.

 

The targeting of educational and religious institutions in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir is part of a broader policy of the occupying authorities, aimed at undermining the socio-cultural and religious identity of the Kashmiri people.

 

These developments point to a troubling rise in Islamophobia in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and across India, reflecting a broader pattern associated with a far-right, Hindutva-driven agenda. Such measures are inconsistent with India’s obligations under international human rights law, particularly with respect to the rights to education and freedom of religion. 

 

(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News): Sir, students of Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, have staged a protest on the campus opposing a program marking 100 Years of RSS. What are your comments on Hinduization of educational institutes in mainland India? And the second question is, I must refer to a video featuring Dr. Udita Tyagi. She is the namesake with the Chief Minister of UP, a leader associated with the Mehla Morcha, the woman wing of the BJP. She rarely referred to Muslim. I'm sorry. I have to quote her with anguish, pain and rage that Muslims were producing children like pigs. What are your comments? She also referred Muslims as a jihadi pigs. This is horrible. I need your comments, please.

 

Spokesperson: Firstly regarding Jamia Millia protest: we have seen media reports in this regard. The permeation of extremist Hindutva ideology into educational institutions in India reflects a consistent and widening pattern aimed at “saffronizing” the state and transforming India into a so-called “Hindu Rashtra.” It is regrettable that educational institutions are increasingly being turned into platforms for propagating a hate-driven, majoritarian narrative among young minds. Jamia Millia has rich tradition and great history.

 

The international community must take serious note of these developments. An exclusionary ideology built on hate poses a threat not only to the very existence of Indian Muslims, including their right to life and human dignity, but also to regional peace and security.

 

On the remarks of a BJP women leader: these statements are as despicable as they are distasteful. While deeply condemnable, they are not surprising and instead reflect a broader and deeply troubling trend: the normalization of hate speech and the increasing marginalization of Muslims. Pakistan unequivocally condemns such vile expressions of hate speech and incitement. The international community must take serious note of this pattern. India must uphold its international obligations to curb hate speech and to protect the rights and dignity of its minority communities, particularly Muslims.

 

(Muhammad Anas Ahsan Mallick, Asia One News): I will stick to two questions. First, with regards to ahead of Amit Shah's visit, we're seeing that at least five new districts have been created in Ladakh, in the Indian occupied territory of Jammu Kashmir, which essentially brings the total number of districts to seven in this so-called Indian Union Territory. What do you have to say on that? And yesterday, while addressing the federal cabinet briefing, the prime minister said, and I quote that Foreign Minister Araghchi, on his second visit to Pakistan, has assured that he will call back and lay out a plan. Did that call back happen yet or not?

 

Spokesperson: Firstly, on your question on the visit of the Indian Home Minister and the situation in the Indian Occupied Ladakh: Pakistan strongly rejects the creation of additional districts in the Occupied Ladakh region of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K). Pakistan considers such unilateral actions by India in an internationally recognized disputed territory to be devoid of legal validity and in contravention of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. These measures neither alter the internationally recognized disputed status of the region nor prejudice the final disposition of the dispute, which is to be resolved in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people through a free and impartial plebiscite under United Nations auspices. On your second question about Mr. Araghchi, I think I can, maybe I can take few more questions on this subject, and then I promise I'll start by your question.

 

(Mateen Haider, WE News): Mr. Spokesperson. It is again related to Iran United States talks hosted by Pakistan. So, since the departure of the Iranian foreign minister, as it was mentioned, that within 24 hours last time he was twice in Islamabad. What is the status of these talks now? The talks collapse? Talks over? Or behind the scene channels of communication are still open? Messages are being still exchanged between Tehran, Washington and Islamabad?

 

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya News): There are reports that US and Iran have begun direct contact. Does this mean that Pakistan role as a mediator has come to end, or it's still ongoing, number first and number second, sir, during the ongoing crisis, we have seen that Iran has allowed Pakistan's 20 vessels through Strait of Hormuz. However, with the enforcing US blockade in the region is Pakistan going to take up this matter with US for Pakistani vessels?

 

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Just want to know the status of this mediation, because over the period of time, the media is saying the talks are stalled. Whether these talks are stalled or background contacts continuing, as said by the Prime Minister yesterday. And second question is, as President Trump, all the times he is raising slogans in favor of Pakistan and its leadership, there is immigration pause on Pakistanis. Those who, the families are separated. They are facing real trouble, whether Pakistan will take up with the United States or not?

 

(Asghar Ali Mubarik, The Daily Mail International): Sir, Pakistan has given another proposal consisting of 10 points to both the countries? Earlier there were proposal consisting of some 10 both or 15?

 

Spokesperson: Let me underscore that these talks started after the call for ceasefire by Pakistan, by our Prime Minister that was very graciously accepted by both parties. The ceasefire basically opened window for substantive diplomacy, including dialogue between the two sides. We need to acknowledge and underscore the importance of the ceasefire by both parties. It ceased hostilities, arms attacks, missiles to and from in the Gulf region stopped. Many lives were saved. Damage to infrastructure was averted. So, this paved the way for the talks. Once these talks were held in Islamabad, both parties discussed all detail. There was a robust media commentary/analyses on the conduct of these talks. Subsequently, after these talks, the diplomatic exchanges, channels of communications, remained open. The process of facilitation of talks continued. As such the status of talks now is that we remain actively engaged with both sides to achieve a resolution of this issue. The clock on diplomacy has not stopped. We remain hopeful of a negotiated settlement of this issue, and we will continue our sincere efforts for the cause of peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

 

The visit of the Iranian Foreign Minister, which Anas Mallick asked, was in the same vein. He held important discussions here in both legs of his visit – before leaving for Oman and then returning from Oman. So, the status is that the clock on diplomacy is ticking, functioning, and ongoing.

 

A question was as also asked about the Strait of Hormuz and the blockade – well, this is an issue which concerns all of us. The Strait of Hormuz is an important international shipping route for goods and energy. Pakistan has called for security of ships and crew members and the swift and safe passage of civilian ships and restoration of normal passage through the Strait. Current situation is adversely impacting countries around the world, including the region, including Pakistan. Its consequence for global regional and global economy are significant. So, we agree on the urgency of the situation and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Normalization of the situation is an important issue for all of us, particularly for the littoral states of Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. We support the legitimate interest of the GCC countries in this regard. The final arrangement has to take into account the interest of our GCC brothers and other countries. The matter, I understands was also discussed in the Security Council. I'm sure you must have followed the open meeting of the Security Council on Strait of Hormuz and on maritime routes that took place, few days ago.

 

The question that Asghar Sahib asked about the new proposal: I'll not talk on any specifics, but I can say that the proposals old, new, not so new, not so old, are on the table. We understand that the main interlocutors, the parties to the conflict, are deliberating on these issues, in depth i.e. internal deliberations. There was an internal meeting in the United States on this earlier part of the weekend. News reports came out of it. I believe similar consultations are taking place in Tehran, also within Iran. We hope that peace will prevail. We hope for stable relations between Iran and the United States.

 

As regards President Trump's statement and the issue of immigration: visa consular matters are on the agenda and when discussed. So, on these issues, the consultations between Pakistan and US are ongoing. We are taking all measures to ensure smooth visa processes and smooth processes on all consular issues with United States. 

 

(Fanis Papathanasiou, Greek Pubic Television): Everybody expects us, the international community, a new proposal from Tehran. Do you have anything? What was the last communication that you had with Tehran? And do you think this new proposal will address all the issues as the United States would like to have, let's say state of Hormuz, nuclear and everything, or just the way it was till now, the first proposal?

 

Spokesperson: I do not speak on specifics. There was talk of an x number of proposals from Iran and then an x number of proposals from the US. We did not discuss any such proposal in the spirit of trust that is reposed on us by both parties to uphold the confidentiality and secrecy. It is important that we maintain that confidentiality. I'm not aware of what new proposal are you referring to, but I can assure you that anything that passes through the conduit of diplomatic channels in Pakistan is faithfully communicated to the other side. I referred to at least three telephone conversation of the Prime Minister with President Pezeshkian. More than five telephone conversations of Foreign Minister Araghchi, with our Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have taken place in the last fortnight. This is in addition to the visits of the Foreign Minister of Iran to Islamabad. So, the proposals, new and old are all on the table. 

 

(Sonia Malik, Koh-i-Noor News): Sir, the Chairman of Parliamentary committee of overseas Pakistanis and Human Rights wrote a letter to the foreign office regarding Cambodia. So, what is the latest status regarding Cambodia? How many Pakistanis have been rescued? Or what steps will be taken next? So, is the Foreign Office in contact with them? 

 

Spokesperson: I think Cambodia, situation of Pakistanis in Cambodia, a number of journalists had asked me yesterday also, and I replied them in my informal capacity, but I can take any other question, if there is on Cambodia. 

 

(Sumaira Khan, SAMAA News):Another issue regarding Cambodia is that, I think, it was mentioned that the flights from there would be arriving soon. The question is, when exactly will those flights arrive? Specifically for the families here who have been affected have they been contacted by MOFA or the respected mission like, who's dealing with the matter? And regarding this matter, the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had given specific instructions. So, is he still handling it, or is it now with MOFA? And please also provide an update on Somalia.

 

Spokesperson: On Cambodia: there were around 61 Pakistanis detained in Cambodia. Our Embassy in Cambodia is in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia. We have been assured that the Pakistanis held are in good health. The Embassy on its own resources, offered food and medical services. It was found that the authorities in Cambodia are providing these services, this material, these basic amenities and food and medical services to all detainees. We also checked about the presence of their passports, national status. So, most of them came on valid tourist visas, but they were not supposed to work in Cambodia. They were supposed to visit. So, they were caught illegally working. This was the first violation of the local visa rules, and then some of them overstayed. So, this is another violation the authorities have very kindly and with a very positive spirit, are trying to wave off these penalties on these individuals. So once the legal processes are complete, the return of the individuals will be swift. We'll keep you updated. The flight connection to Cambodia, I believe, is a connecting flight through the region. So, I'm sure that once the internal processes of legal processes of Cambodia will be complete, these individuals will return home. But I think I'll use this opportunity to highlight that our individuals should be very mindful of these scamming online jobs that are being offered in countries. There are other countries in the ASEAN region which have been offered similar fraudulent jobs. So, we will urge our fellow Pakistani brothers and sisters, not to take those jobs and take each of these offer with a pinch of salt, and try not to be lured by that. 

 

On Somalia, the oil tanker, name Honor 25 was hijacked by the pirates near the southeast coast of Somalia on 21st April. This vessel was carrying oil to the Somali region, the region called Puntland. It had 17 crew members, including 10 Pakistanis. Our Embassy in Djibouti, which is accredited to Somalia, approached the authorities in Somalia, including their foreign office, and we learned that the vessel was anchored in the coast of EYL in the Puntland region. You may recall that this Puntland region is a semi-autonomous part of Somalia. We consider it as part of the brotherly nation of Somalia. MT Honor 25 we understand, is owned by a businessman who is based in Puntland. So, I think the positive side of this story or the silver lining is that the ship is where it belongs to. Somalian Foreign Ministry has been very cooperative. They have sent us in writing that they are closely monitoring the situation, and they have assured us that any update or information received regarding the status of the vessels and safety of the crew member will be shared. They are trying their best to ensure that the safety and well-being of our detained Pakistanis and all crew members are taken care of. They are in touch with the pirates and authorities in the Portland region. Based on this discussion with the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we have fair reason to believe that our crew members are safe and secure, and the pirates and the owner of the ship, who is a local person, are in contact. 

 

Piracy in the region has continued for quite a while now. There is an information center called the JMIC, which is an information center of the coalition of countries which are conducting anti-piracy operations. These are the coalition of the naval forces. Pakistan Navy has also participated in some of the counter narcotics action, maybe in some anti-piracy actions as well, under the Combined Task Force 150 and Combined Task Force 151 – coalition of naval forces. In fact, Pakistan Navy has, at time, commanded CTF 150 but CTF 150 mandate, I understand, is more towards counter narcotics than counter piracy. 

 

In closing, the embassy is maintaining close liaison with the authorities and international stakeholders, and is closely monitoring developments in the region. Our two priorities are safety of Pakistani nationals and their well-being and ensuring their safe and early return and repatriation. 

 

(Tahir Khan, NNI): The Taliban government summoned the Pakistani envoy in Kabul and protested what they say, targeting of the civilian areas, including a university in Kunar few days ago. So what is Pakistan’s response? Because some UN organizations also endorse what Kabul say about these strikes. And the second thing is almost now daily Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces exchange fire. Even today, there were reports at some locations. So my second part of the question is that will the situation continue to go on like this and what will happen to Pakistan – Afghanistan relations that it has been 8 months since all border routes were closed on October 11 and government to government contacts were suspended. If you have anything about the major talks that took place in Urumqi China then please share with us.

 

Spokesperson: On this Pakistan’s Charge d’ Affaires’ being summoned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kabul – this news is correct. He was called for a meeting. After having viewed the content of the demarch, we believe it is part of a familiar pattern of propaganda aimed at smoke screening the permissive environment provided by the Afghan Taliban for known terrorist organizations in Afghanistan. This poses a serious threat to the regional peace and stability. Fact remains that Afghanistan is a safe haven for TTP/Fitnah Al Khawaraj, Fitnah Al Hind and their affiliates – under the watch of and facilitation of the Afghan Taliban regime. This has been widely recognized by regional countries, well corroborated by international reports, including the reports of the UN Security Council. So, we obviously dismiss any propaganda done by the Afghan authorities in this regard.

 

As regards Afghan side claims on incidents in Kunar Province and elsewhere: Well, these claims are a blatant lie and an attempt to gain sympathy to cover up the activities of Afghan Taliban/Fitnah Al Khawaraj. There were no strikes carried out on any university, particularly Sayyed Jamaluddin Afghan University. These claims are frivolous and fake. We have dismissed it. I am sure you must have seen official statements from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. 

 

About Urumqi talks and the future: Pakistan's demand in relation to Afghanistan is a one liner, simple quite straightforward – that Afghan territory should not be used to plan, sponsor and engineer attacks against Pakistan, including attacks by Afghan nationals. Our one-point agenda is on the table. It is for the Afghan authorities to accept that. It is for Afghan authorities to understand that. And we are not asking for a commitment that is beyond international law. It is not a commitment that Afghanistan has not made in the past. The fact that Afghan territory will not be used for terrorist activities against its neighbor was part of the Doha Agreement (2021), and was part of subsequent understanding between Afghan Taliban regime and its neighboring countries. It is within International Law. So, this is a one-point agenda. This is what was discussed in Urumqi. Pakistan will follow up on the discussions in Urumqi in its full earnestness.

 

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, although there were plenty of questions about Iran and the United States, I just have two general questions, and I believe that you will answer them according to your wisdom and information as well.

 

First, is Pakistan still a main mediator between United States and Iran, and how far is the world to witness the peace agreement between United States and Iran, whether it would be issued from Washington, Tehran or Islamabad?

 

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): President Trump says that 18 hour long journey or travel to Islamabad without results, is pointless. Similarly, offering Iran to contact Americans via secure phone, does it signal the end of Pakistan's intermediate role? 

 

(Afzal Reza, IRNA): You talk about the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and expressing Pakistan’s concern that this should be reopened. Before the ceasefire applying in Lebanon and Iran acted immediately to reopen the Strait  of Hormuz. But unfortunately, it was illegal action by the US to put the naval blockade against Iran. And the next day, Iran again closed the Strait of Hormuz. It was a response to some of the ceasefire violation by the US. But has Pakistan, as a mediator, asked the US side to end this illegal naval blockade. We can imagine good response from the Iranian side regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Thank you.

 

Spokesperson: Pakistan is actively engaged with both sides (Iran and USA) to achieve resolution of this issue. The facilitation process is ongoing. Obviously, the momentum is generated as and when required by the relevant parties, when we receive a proposal or a counter proposal. So, let me assure you – our diplomacy and our peace efforts are continuing.

 

The question on travel time or whether the two sides can have discussions on telephone: We would welcome that development. In a sense, if the two parties can engage in real time direct conversation that could ease the sticking points, this would be a positive development. Pakistan's role of facilitation would continue. We would welcome direct negotiations in a way that helps settle the situation. We would not resent such kind of a direct telephone exchange. In fact, we very much encourage that. 

 

The question from IRNA, about the Strait of Hormuz. My comment are in general sense that the closure of Strait of Hormuz affects everybody. We would not be in the business of ascribing blame to parties as to who is responsible for that. We need to detach ourselves from any blame game and focus on the importance of opening of Hormuz. This issue is among the issues that the two sides (Iran, USA) have been discussing. We hope that these discussions will conclude, and we would have a free passage easy access to energy and commodities. Commerce should flow through this important waterway.

 

(Nayyer Ali, 365 News): Half of my question is already answered with Tahir Sahab’s question, Please explain it more. We are talking about one point agenda with Afghanistan and they have been continuously violating that one point agenda as we highlighted in Urumqi talks. Also ceasefire was violated in Angoor Ada one week ago in which Pakistani civilians were injured including women and children. Is there a ceasefire? If ceasefire is being violated then what is status of Pak – Afghan border?

 

Secondly, there are reports that Prime Minister is going to visit China? In the coming days, is there any Prime Minister’s visit to China? 

 

Spokesperson: On Afghanistan, I stated that the main heading of our agenda was is that the Afghan territory should not be used for terrorism against Pakistan. It had its certain subsets in terms of how the Afghans will offer their commitments, particularly their written commitments, and ensure that this demand is implemented.

 

As regards the ceasefire: I have mentioned it here before also, the ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan should not be taken as a ceasefire between traditional conflicting parties at War. The interpretation of ceasefire for us is that no attack should emanate from Afghanistan, including attack by terrorist organizations and armed groups; because these terrorist organizations and armed groups have been acting in close cohort, close alliance with the Afghan Taliban authorities. So, for us to say that the ceasefire is holding means that all the fire ceases – whether it is from the Afghan forces, whether it is from armed groups that are operating in Afghanistan under the patronage of Afghan Taliban.

 

You refer to the incidents of Angoor Ada and elsewhere: yes, these are the breaches of ceasefire. These are, in fact, the more serious breaches of the ceasefire, because the direct Afghan authority, Afghan Taliban regime, is involved in these attacks. This constitute serious breach of ceasefire and the importance is enhanced by the fact that now we have a situation where the ceasefire is violated by the government forces directly as evidence in this incident in Waziristan. 

 

On Prime Minister’s visit to China, we will announce, in due course, I do not have any information now. When, and if it is planned, we will let you know.

 

(Zahid Farooq Malik, Daily Metro Watch): These days, we are seeing brutal persecution in Kashmir and it is increasing day by day. History of Kashmir has been removed from syllabus of school books. Pakistan has vowed that it will provide them with moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris. Human rights violations have increased but it has been overshadowed due to Iran-American-Israel conflict. What is your message to the world regarding persecutions in Kashmir? 

 

Spokesperson: This is an important question. We have seen these reports, particularly with respect to the elimination of Urdu language in curricula, in recruitment exams, and in social sense in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This is a very deeply troubling development. It reflects a continuum of the atrocities committed by India in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir to erase the Muslim identity of this region, to ensure that the demographic changes by India (in IIOJ&K) get solidified. Urdu language is a common heritage of the Muslims of this region. The Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir has produced numerous celebrated scholars of Urdu language. So, if this language is erased in this Muslim majority region, it really should be an eye opener and worrying development. It should be an eye opener, particularly for those pro-India or Indian puppets in this territory, who have either acquiesced with the Indian occupation or who have supported Indian occupation in the past, and have been an office bearer in the illegally occupied territory. Now they see their identity, their language, their religion, being effaced from Jammu and Kashmir. This should open their eyes. They should realize that this illegal occupation is not just an affront on the legal status of Jammu and Kashmir, but also on the basic human rights of the Kashmiri Muslims, their identity, right to education, their right to language, their right to life. It should be an eye opener, particularly for those who, at one point on time, have been office bearers in the Indian Illegally Occupied Kashmir, acting as puppets of New Delhi to consolidate the India's illegal occupation. One hopes some sense will finally on Indian puppets when their own identity and language is erased.

 

(Abbas Jaffar, Daily District News): One year has passed since false flag Pahalgam incident took place. Pakistan has taken Indus Water Treaty accord to the UN. For one year and ongoing, India has neither provided proof nor this problem was solved. So, what will be its future? Will this issue be resolved in the UN? 

 

Secondly, there are reports that Pakistani government has allowed individuals to conduct trade with Iran through its border in Baluchistan. Are the reports true? What are your comments? 

 

Spokesperson: On Indus Water Treaty, the Security Council is seized of the matters. Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir remains on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council. Under that agenda item, Indus Water Treaty is a subset of this issue (of Jammu and Kashmir which remains on the agenda of the Security Council). So, Pakistan's approach at the UN Security Council (SC), its various demarches to this world body, are taking place not only under the SC’s agenda item of Jammu and Kashmir, Security Council in general, but also in the context of ‘maintenance of international peace and security’, which is the basic mandate of the UN Security Council.

 

Let me reiterate that we will strive, and we will ensure to get each drop of water that is allocated to Pakistan under that IWT. The World Bank is a Party to IWT. The matter is on the agenda of the World Bank as well. So it is not just United Nations, but also the World Bank, which is in a way, a custodian and a body overlooking this treaty.

 

Your second question about the trade routes with Iran: land routes remain open. I do not have anything to say that there is any material change in the land routes, land borders between Pakistan and Iran.

 

(Syeda Qurat-ul-Ain, Independent Urdu): There has been several media reports that leading business group from the Middle East is going to exit from PTCL and it is from UAE. On the other hand, Etihad Airways has reportedly abruptly terminated the services of several Pakistanis. And apart from this, there has been several media reports that a lot of or a number of Shia Muslims have been asked to leave or their visas, golden visas, or normal visas have been either terminated or whatever the word is. So, can you please give a comment on this, and was this taken up by the Pakistan government with the concerned counterpart?

 

Spokesperson: I am not aware of any development with respect to PTCL and the UAE. I can check, and maybe you can also check from the PTCL authorities.

 

On Etihad Air also, I am not aware of specific actions. I believe you are talking of the Pakistani employees of that airline. Again, I do not have any visibility on the issue. There may have been sporadic layoffs or sporadic incidents, but I am not aware of any pattern. There are 2.2 million Pakistanis living in UAE and contributing to the economy. Any news of any targeting or profiling of Pakistanis for employment is untrue. There may be an element of rumor mongering to basically drive a wedge between brotherly countries of Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. There was a news report on this subject. In one of the US magazine/online publication, came across in the morning, I saw absolutely fabricated regret. We should be mindful that our distracters are willfully trying to create a wedge between the relationships of our brotherly countries (Pakistan & UAE). We should resent such effort. We should call them into question. That US based scribe, an Indian may be, incidentally called me in very late hours of the night asking the same question I told her that this is untrue. Then I very politely asked her to nominate a representative in Pakistan. As that point, the call dropped. These kinds of reports are coming, and we should absolutely reject these reports. Pakistan and UAE are brotherly countries, supportive of each other. We have been supporting each other bilaterally, multilaterally, and this positive spirit must continue. As regards Shia Muslims, we should not be paying heed to such speculative and rumor mongering reports.

 

(Ghulam Mustafa Janjua, News One TV): My questions is ever since negotiations started between Iran and the US, the US President issues threatening tweets. Yesterday, he again issued a threatening tweet. You stated Pakistan is part of the peace process. These messages do damage the peace process. How much damage was done to peace process through these messages? Obviously, Pakistan has its concerns about it. Did Pakistan convey its concerns to the US?

   

Spokesperson: Our efforts for peace are ongoing.