Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Welcome to the weekly briefing. 

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 3-4 December 2024 to participate in the “One Water Summit” – a joint initiative of France, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia and the World Bank. 

Speaking at the Summit, the Prime Minister underscored the need for strong political will and global leadership to overcome the water crisis posing existential threat to the nations around the globe. He proposed a six-point global agenda to address water-related challenges. 

The Prime Minister called for international cooperation to ensure sustainable water and sanitation for all; sharing of knowledge and expertise; and transfer of innovative water management technologies. He also urged the developed countries to allocate adequate funding for climate-resilient infrastructure; overcoming the financing gap in vulnerable countries; and creating frameworks for transparency, data sharing, and regional cooperation to prevent water-related conflicts and promote water sharing.

On the sidelines of the Summit, the Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia H.R.H Muhammad Bin Salman and the President of France Emmanuel Macron. 

Earlier this week, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar visited Mashhad, Iran to participate in the 28th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Economic Cooperation Organisation. 

In his address at the Meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the ECO Charter and highlighted the potential of greater connectivity in the ECO region. He termed the ECO Vision 2025 as the key guiding document to enhance intra-regional cooperation among ECO member states. He expressed Pakistan’s support for ECO’s role in development of road and rail networks in the region for liberalization of visa regimes; and simplification of border procedures. 

The Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister signed the ECO Charter of Clean Energy Centre which focuses on research and development for innovative renewable clean energy sources to combat climate change.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with the Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Aragchi, Deputy Prime Minister / Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nuretlu and the Secretary General of the ECO, Dr. Asad Majeed Khan.

The 9th Meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation was held in Moscow from 2-4 December 2024.

The IGC was co-chaired by the Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev. The two sides expressed satisfaction at the constructive nature of the bilateral political dialogue, including contacts at the highest level, as well as productive cooperation within international organizations. The two sides discussed bilateral cooperation in economic, trade, scientific and technical and scientific domains and enhanced air connectivity between Pakistan and Russia. 

The two sides signed eight bilateral documents to promote cooperation in energy, education, medicines, trade, academic and technological exchanges and industrial cooperation. 

We welcome yesterday’s resolution of the UN General Assembly calling on Israeli occupation authorities to withdraw from Palestinian territories and for the creation of a Palestinian state. The genocide in Gaza must end. Civilians in Gaza are being indiscriminately killed including at food distribution points, hospitals and refugee shelters. This humanitarian situation needs urgent international attention. 

Pakistan is deeply concerned at the latest developments in Syria. We believe that the ongoing situation will further destabilize the region and embolden terrorist organizations. It is critical to promote peace and security in Syria for regional stability. We call for international efforts to deescalate the situation and for upholding unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

Pakistan remains concerned at the continuing seizure of properties of Kashmiris in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), including the recent seizure of the properties of 13 individuals in Kishtwar district. Indian actions are part of an ongoing drive to confiscate Kashmiri lands and properties to harass and intimidate the Kashmiri people and punish them for their dissenting political views. We urge the Indian authorities to end the ongoing campaign of seizing the properties of Kashmiri people and abide by its international obligations as an occupying power.

Pakistan will continue to extend political, diplomatic and moral support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters for the just and peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolutions.

I thank you!

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(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): So firstly, starting with Russia, the energy Minister yesterday, in an interview with RT, Russia Today has said that Pakistan plans on running a trial train for goods and logistics transportation starting as early as March next year, 2025 via Iran and Azerbaijan. Can you shed more light on this proposed plan, as announced by the Energy Minister? 

Number two, Afghanistan, the Taliban have banned nursing schools for women and how does Pakistan see the measure? What is Pakistan’s take on the matter?
 
Spokesperson: First, I have not seen the interview of the Minister for Energy, so I am not able to comment on it. As I said in my opening remarks, issues relating to connectivity were discussed in the meeting, which was held yesterday, of the Joint Ministerial Commission between Pakistan and Russia. 

With regards to your second question, our position on the rights of women and girls, especially for their inherent right to education, is clear and consistent. We believe that every man and woman has the inherent right to education in accordance with the injunctions of Islam. We believe Islam grants equal access and right to women. Islam is an egalitarian religion that guarantees women the right to education and to inherit and own property. The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan guarantees these rights to women of Pakistan, and we wish similar rights to women elsewhere.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): America and China have announced trade restrictions on each other. How does Pakistan see this matter and what could be its impact on Pakistan and other countries? 

Spokesperson: We believe that countries should maintain good relations on the basis of equality, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's domestic affairs. The same is true in case of U.S – China relations as well. Pakistan firmly supports the approach of cooperation over confrontation. An approach that is built on reaffirmation of faith in and commitment to the UN Charter and international law. We hope that as major economies, China and the United States would manage their differences and play their role for shared prosperity and development.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Dateline Islamabad): Yesterday, speaking to IISI seminar, former Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said that the Pakistan People's Party supports normalization of ties with India. She urged India to show flexibility, and Pakistan to reciprocate and immediately start trade at least between the two countries. What are your comments?

Spokesperson: I was not present at that event, so I will not like to comment on the statement of the former Foreign Minister and Minister of State of Pakistan. Pakistan has always said that it desires cooperative relations with all its neighbours, including India. We have consistently advocated constructive engagement and result-oriented dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. However, the political will to resolve disputes and differences through dialogue and diplomacy seem lacking on India's part. Pakistan believes in peaceful coexistence. We want peace and stability in the region. Pakistan has been acting in a responsible manner, notwithstanding the difficulties in bilateral relations with India. However, it takes two to tango. We can only wish our eastern neighbour to take steps to create a conducive environment for advancement of peace and dialogue and resolution of long-standing disputes.

(Syed Asif Ali, Din News): There has been a lot of international commentary regarding the protest of a political party in Pakistan and members of parliaments of different countries have expressed concerns. Is it just a propaganda or has any human rights organization or any country contacted foreign office at any level and expressed reservations and demanded investigations?

Spokesperson: First, we have seen some statements in the media. Some of these are based on inaccurate and incomplete picture about the situation in Pakistan. Pakistani Constitution upholds the freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. Pakistan will uphold its constitution and laws, protect its citizens and institutions, and work to maintain law and order. 

(Allah Noor, Mashriq TV): There are several media reports regarding appointment of retired Army officers as Pakistan’s ambassadors abroad. In how many countries former retired Army personnel are working as ambassadors and how are the relations of those countries with Pakistan?

Spokesperson: I do not have a list of all ambassadors of Pakistan abroad. As you know, it is the prerogative of the Government of Pakistan to appoint ambassadors to foreign countries as per established practice. So, I am not in a position to comment on any specific personnel appointment. 

(Allah Noor, Mashriq TV): There are terrorism incidents taking place in KPK and Balochistan and TTP is taking the responsibility of the attacks. Are the TTP operatives present in Pakistan or do they cross over from Afghanistan for terrorist attacks? 

Spokesperson: Pakistan continues to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and ensure the security of the people of Pakistan. You may have seen in recent days that in our campaign to combat terrorism, several law enforcement and security officials have also been killed. It remains a priority for Pakistan to fight terror groups and terrorist entities operating in Pakistan, notwithstanding the source of these terrorists and their sponsors.

(Mateen Haider, GTV News): Couple of weeks back, Prime Minister of Pakistan had written a letter to the US president, Mr. Biden, on Afia Siddiqui matter. A high-level parliamentary committee was also constituted, which was expected to undertake a visit to the United States after the US elections. Please update any development about the travel plans of the committee and any response by the US administration on the letter written by the Prime Minister of Pakistan?

Spokesperson: I do not have an update on the letter written by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. With regards to the schedule of the visit of parliamentarians, I would request you to engage with the Parliament of Pakistan about any visits that the parliamentarians are planning to undertake. The Government of Pakistan remains committed to pursuing the case of Ms. Afia Siddiqui, as instructed by the relevant courts, and in that respect the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to facilitate the process.

(Mudasser Iqbal, The Destination): Has Lieutenant Muhammad Amir been appointed as Ambassador to Qatar? Secondly, yesterday an important meeting was held by the Deputy Prime Minister with the Diplomatic Corps. What was the motive of this meeting? Is it the pressure from overseas Pakistanis on social media accounts and fake news being propagated? Your comments?

Spokesperson: On your first question, as I said earlier, I will not comment on any specific diplomatic assignment. These are routine appointments by the Government of Pakistan. So, I will not like to engage in discussion on appointment of any specific ambassador.
 
With regards to your second question, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister met with the Diplomatic Corps yesterday and briefed them on the security situation in light of the recent developments in Islamabad. The main purpose of briefing the foreign envoys was to reassure them of their security, the security of the diplomatic missions and the diplomatic personnel in Islamabad.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): The US State Department, in response to a question with regards to the frivolous arrest of senior journalist, Matiullah Jan had said and commented, and I quote, that “no journalist should face harassment, threats, abuse or arrest just for doing their job” . Does the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs agree or endorse this statement in context of the arrest on the frivolous charges against senior journalist Matiullah Jan by the Islamabad police? 

Spokesperson: It is our understanding that Mr. Matiullah Jan has been released as per Pakistani laws and the decisions of Pakistani courts. This shows the vibrancy of Pakistan's judicial system and Pakistani laws. We are confident that the state of Pakistan, the Pakistani nation, can resolve any domestic issues that arise from time to time.

(Faisal Kamal Pasha, WE News): After the attack on the Bangladeshi diplomats in India, it seems Bangladeshi government is developing its relations with Pakistan and the situation in Bangladesh is now changing in favour of Pakistan. Reportedly, they have ordered rice and sugar import from Pakistan and cancelled Indian contracts. They also eased visa regime for Pakistanis traveling to Bangladesh. So, your comment on how the power equation in the region would benefit Pakistan?

Spokesperson: I would advise you not to read too much into regular commercial exchanges between Pakistan and countries in the region. Bangladesh is a brotherly Muslim country and a South Asian partner. We wish to enhance economic and commercial exchanges and connectivity with Bangladesh. So, we will continue to engage with Bangladesh and other countries in the region to promote economic cooperation and bilateral trade.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): My question is also about Bangladesh and the situation in this region, especially after the revolution in Bangladesh. Mamta Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal has spoken about some UN role in Bangladesh regarding status of Hindu minorities. Then in Agartala, the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh was attacked and ransacked by Indian nationals. So, how do you view all these developments? 

Spokesperson: First, with regards to your first question. As a matter of policy, we do not comment on the developments in internal affairs of other countries. We also believe sitting on judgment on domestic affairs of other countries is neither helpful nor constructive. We are confident that the people of Bangladesh have the capacity to settle their domestic affairs without unsolicited advice and interference from outsiders. With regards to your second question, we are aware of attacks on the Bangladeshi Missions in India in recent days. These are condemnable acts that should not have happened. Pakistan believes that under international law, it is the responsibility of the host government to provide safety and security to diplomatic missions and personnel. It is therefore important that Indian authorities ensure the safety and security of Bangladeshi diplomats and missions.

(Mateen Haider, GTV News): Just two days earlier Pakistani High Commissioner in Dhaka held meeting with the former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khalida Zia. Can you share details if it was a courtesy call or any special message from Pakistani Government was being conveyed to former Bangladeshi Prime Minister? 

Spokesperson: Bangladesh is a brotherly Muslim country and a South Asian partner, and Pakistan is committed to promoting bilateral relations with Bangladesh. It has been a practice of Pakistani diplomats and ambassadors to meet with political figures in various countries, and the meeting of our High Commissioner with Mrs. Khalida Zia was in the same context. The two sides discussed how Pakistan and Bangladesh can continue to strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation.

(Kiran Butt, The Khorasan Diary): A Taliban Government official has confirmed that they have started moving Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan's families and fighters away from the Pakistani border to Ghazni Province. This process started last year, but we just got a confirmation right now. Also we have seen over the last couple of months, four senior leaders of TTP being killed in Afghanistan. Can the Foreign Office share details of diplomatic efforts in Afghanistan, because just last week, Mr. Ubaid ur Rehman Nizamani met with Mullah Yaqoob but there was no official press release or details about the agenda? Can you share anything on these developments and engagement on security matters with Afghanistan.

Spokesperson: Regarding your first question. Our Head of mission, Ambassador Obaidur Rehman Nizamani is the lead in conversations with the authorities in Afghanistan to promote bilateral relations. In his meetings with the Afghan interim government authorities, the Ambassador has been discussing measures to promote bilateral cooperation, dialogue and understanding between the two countries. This is the main agenda of his conversations with the key government officials in Afghanistan. Our two countries remain engaged, to discuss all matters which are of primary concern to both sides. For Pakistan, the issues relating to terrorism are high on the agenda of Pakistan-Afghanistan exchanges. Pakistan and Afghanistan have been discussing aspects of combating the threat that Pakistan faces from the terror elements, which have found hideouts and sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. I would not like to go into details of these discussions. We will however, continue to discuss with Afghan authorities and encourage them to take action against terror groups and entities that threaten Pakistan's security.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): In India, mandirs are coming up in places of mosques. There was a case of the shrine of Khwaja Moin-Ud-Din Chishti in Ajmer Sharif earlier. Recently in a historical mosque named, “Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra” Muslims prayers are being prohibited. Your comments, please? 

Spokesperson: These are disturbing developments. Over the past years, we have been witnessing an emerging pattern of systematic targeting of shrines and places of worships of Muslims in India. This trend needs to be arrested. Indian authorities must ensure the safety, security and dignity of Muslims in India, their holy sites, and places of worship.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Yesterday, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister addressed foreign diplomats. So, my question is, why such a briefing was warranted? Were there some concerns from the foreign diplomats? They wanted to know what happened over there? 

Spokesperson: This question was asked earlier also. I can repeat my answer. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister yesterday met with the diplomatic corps and brief them on the recent developments with regards to security of Islamabad. The main purpose of meeting them was to reassure them of the security of diplomatic missions and personnel which are based in the red zone, and reassure them of the Government's commitment to protect the Diplomatic Enclave and the Red Zone.

(Mateen Haider, GTV News): This question was asked several weeks ago. Would you kindly give an update about Pakistani prisoners in different prisons, particularly in Gulf, Europe, and other countries? Also any efforts undertaken by Government of Pakistan to get those prisoners released who have completed their legal sentence?

Spokesperson: As I have said in the past, the statistics with regards to Pakistani prisoners are not static. These are dynamic statistics, and they change every day. So, it is not possible for me to give you an exact figure for today. However, I can reassure you that the Government of Pakistan and our Missions abroad consider the welfare of Pakistanis abroad as a key priority. This includes facilitating the return of Pakistani prisoners who have completed their terms in prison. We urge Pakistanis living abroad to respect the laws and customs of the country where they are living and not to violate local laws.

(Syed Asif Ali, Din News): In a case involving a 500 years old historical mosque in the city of Sumbal in India, a writ petition similar to Babri Mosque has been filed which has been hurriedly surveyed. Security forces were deployed and there were protests in which four young people were killed. What does Pakistan think about religious freedom in India especially for Muslims?

Spokesperson: My response is the same. We spoke about it last week as well. These are disturbing developments. For the past years, we have been witnessing an emerging pattern of systematic targeting of shrines and places of worships of Muslims in India. We urge the Indian authorities to ensure the safety, security and dignity of Muslims in India their holy sites and places of worship.

(Mudasser Iqbal, The Destination): Champions Trophy is going to be held in Pakistan and India is making several demands. PCB is trying on its end. Is the Foreign Office also putting its efforts in this matter? As Dr. Jai Shankar recently visited Pakistan which was termed as a diplomatic success. Are we trying to bring Indian Cricket team to Pakistan? 

Spokesperson: It is the Pakistan Cricket Board that is taking lead on discussions with ICC with regards to the participation of all cricket playing nations at the Champions Trophy. This is a Champions Trophy of ICC; Pakistan happens to be the host. So, it is with ICC that these discussions are taking place.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Dateline Islamabad): Ambassador Asif Durani has warned that there is a danger that Taliban, TTP, ISKP Khorasan, and ETIM and other dozen terror groups have deepened their foothold in Afghanistan, and they may enact another 9/11 type surprise in the near future. What are your comments?

Spokesperson: I have not seen the statement by Ambassador Asif Durani. However, Pakistan has expressed its concerns in the past about the collusion between different terror groups in Afghanistan. We are concerned, as has been outlined by several reports including by the UN monitoring team, that these terror groups could join forces and transform into extra regional threat. We therefore would like to see immediate, effective, and robust action against these terror groups.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): Madam, Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad conducted a visit of Iraq where he held different meetings. Your comments, please? 

Spokesperson: I would request you to contact the ISPR for details of the visit. Pakistan and Iraq have a history of relations, including cooperation in the security and defense domain. Our two sides will continue to discuss bilateral cooperation and dialogue including on security and training.

(Allah Noor, Mashriq TV): After the recent PTI protests in D-chowk and even before such protests, Afghans living in Islamabad have been harassed and arrested. Can you share, how many Afghans were arrested during the recent protest and will Pakistan send them back to Afghanistan? Furthermore, the Afghan Embassy in Pakistan issued a statement that no Afghan was involved in this protest. 

Spokesperson: You may have seen the statements which were released by the Ministry of Interior about individuals who were arrested last week and the fact that there was presence of foreign nationals, Afghan nationals, in some of the incidents that took place last week. We have said previously that, as per Pakistani laws, foreigners are expected not to participate in political activities in Pakistan. Similarly, any foreign national who is found involved in any illegal activity in Pakistan will be dealt with according to Pakistani law. For exact number of arrests, I would advise you to contact the Ministry of Interior.

(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD): Two different questions, First, Khwaja Asif said hundreds of Taliban crossed over and entered KPK. Are they still here? Secondly, can you confirm that Lt. General Mohammad Amir was first nominated as Ambassador to the UAE and then as ambassador in Qatar. What is his current status? 

Spokesperson: I will not, this is a third question, I will not like to make any announcement about appointment of personnel today. Secondly, with regards to your first question, I would advise you to contact the Ministry of Defense to ascertain the details and background of any statement made by the Minister for Defense. It is the Ministry of Interior and our law enforcement authorities which are the best repository of information with regards to presence of any foreign nationals or terrorist entities inside Pakistan.

Thank you!