Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Today, we mark one year since Marka-e-Haq, a defining moment in our national journey. Echoing the words of our Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister whose message was released an hour ago -- The anniversary of Marka-e-Haq is not only about remembering the past; it is about shaping the future because – the spirit of Marka-e-Haq lives not just in our history, but in each of us. 

On 5th May, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar briefed the Diplomatic Corps on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, highlighting it as a symbol of Pakistan’s unity, resilience, and the Armed Forces’ resolve to defend sovereignty. He noted that Pakistan’s response under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos was measured, lawful, and in line with the UN Charter. He stressed that the Jammu & Kashmir dispute remains central to regional instability and called for its resolution under UN auspices, while also cautioning against unilateral actions on the Indus Waters Treaty. The DPM/FM also highlighted Pakistan’s facilitative role in supporting ceasefire efforts in the Middle East and Gulf region.

Moving on to Pakistan’s facilitative and mediation role between Iran and the United States - The Prime Minister of Pakistan H.E Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, in a statement yesterday appreciated the timely announcement regarding the pause in Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz. The Prime Minister noted that Pakistan remains firmly committed to supporting all efforts that promote restraint and a peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy. He expressed hope that the current momentum will lead to a lasting agreement that secures durable peace and stability for the region and beyond.

Working with this spirit of optimism and positive engagement, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar remained in contact with his counterparts in line with our efforts to promote peace and pursue diplomatic channels.

On May 4, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, on the regional situation and Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for peace. The Iranian side appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and mediation role, while the DPM/FM reaffirmed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to lasting peace and stability.

Immediately afterwards, and following active diplomatic engagements, twenty-two crew members held aboard the seized Iranian container ship, ‘MV Touska’, were evacuated to Pakistan and later to Iran. This was a major confidence-building measure by the United States of America.  These returns were coordinated in tandem with the support of both the Iranian and US sides.

Earlier On May 2, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar spoke with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. 

On May 3, the DPM/FM spoke with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi. 

On 4 May, the DPM/FM spoke with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.

On 4 May, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister received the Deputy Foreign Minister of Norway, H.E. Mr. Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik. Discussion was held on further strengthening bilateral relations and deepening engagement between the two countries across diverse sectors of mutual interest. 

Mr. Kravik conveyed an invitation from the Norwegian Foreign Minister to DPM/FM to participate in the Oslo Forum scheduled for next month.

Last weekend, Pakistan joined a Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of Türkiye, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Jordan, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, South Africa, Spain and Turkiye regarding the Israeli Assaults on the Global Sumud Flotilla, 30 April 2026

The Foreign Ministers condemned in the strongest terms the Israeli assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla, a peaceful civilian humanitarian initiative aimed at drawing the attention of the international community to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. The Israeli attacks against the vessels and the unlawful detention of humanitarian activists in international waters constitute flagrant violations of international law and international humanitarian law. 

Finally on 05 May, 2026: Pakistan Navy, demonstrating vigilance and commitment to international maritime obligations, promptly responded to a distress call from the offshore vessel MV GAUTAM in the Arabian Sea. The vessel carrying seven crew members, six Indian and one Indonesian, suffered a critical technical failure leaving it stranded at sea.

Upon receiving the alert from Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, Pakistan Navy initiated a swift response and deployed PMSA Ship KASHMIR. The ship provided food, medical aid, and technical assistance to help restore essential systems and ensure crew safety.

This operation underscores Pakistan Navy’s commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian responsibilities, irrespective of nationality, and highlights its readiness to respond to emergencies in international waters.

On Cambodia

Last week, 54 Pakistanis were taken into custody by the Cambodian police during a raid on a scamming compound. The Mission granted them consular access on 29 April, 2026 and issued Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) to individuals without valid passports.

On Mission's request, the host authorities allowed all 54 individuals to travel back to Pakistan. As of today, 49 individuals have returned and an additional 3 have secured air tickets for 7 May, 2026.

Detention of Pakistanis in Uganda

As you are aware, eighty-five (85) Pakistani nationals were detained in Kampala, on 27 April 2026 by Ugandan Immigration Authorities for engaging in unauthorized employment while on visit visas. The authorities initiated legal proceedings with the intention of presenting the case before a court of law. It was established that these individuals had been working for approximately four months with unregistered online companies. 

The court of law issues sentence and fine of USD 400 per person. Our Embassy intervened and, on their request, the sentence was waived but as a result, fine of USD 400 per person was imposed for violation of visa conditions. 

Over the course of the following week, the Mission closely coordinated with the relevant authorities to facilitate the expeditious repatriation of the affected individuals to 

As a result of these efforts Pakistan. all 85 individuals were successfully repatriated to Pakistan by yesterday evening. 

Throughout the period of detention, the Mission ensured the provision of essential support, including two daily meals, breakfast, clean drinking water, and necessary medical care, particularly in light of the logistical challenges faced by the local authorities in managing a large number of detainees. 

Additionally, the Mission took up the cases of nationals from Bangladeshi, Nepal and Sri Lankan with the Ugandan authorities and extended them all possible assistance. 

Thank you

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(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News):    Marka-e-Haq, yes, the diplomats were briefed here by honorable Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. My question is that one year on, during the briefing, any concern by any diplomats were raised regarding sustenance of peace in this region?  especially, there have been a series of statements very hostile and aggressive from the Indian side. Or you think, after successful conclusion of Marka-e-Haq, this question is once and for all settled between the two countries? Even in the wake Indus Water Treaty still in abeyance. My second question is, as you just talked about, that the Prime Minister expressed his optimism about an agreement between Iran and United States very soon. How soon Pakistan assesses that this question will be closed? and will there be peace and tranquility between Iran and United States and in this region?

Spokesperson:    On the first part of your question regarding briefing by Deputy Prime Minister to the diplomatic corps: his opening statement was released, but subsequent interaction was in camera i.e. without media. We would not divulge the details of what transpired during the in-camera session. But what I can tell you is that the peace and security in South Asia remains a concern for our international partners. The belligerent statements that emanate from New Delhi are a cause of concern. 

Marka-e-Haq, the first anniversary, is an occasion to reinforce the national resolve that sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of the country would be defended with all means possible and with full resolve. That message has resonated across our international partners. The belligerence emanating from our neighbor is not appreciated in any international capital. Pakistan's advocacy for diplomacy, dialogue is appreciated all along. 

On Iran US, you have asked us how soon we can expect an agreement. We remain optimistic. A simple answer would be that we expect an agreement sooner rather than later. We hope that the parties will come to a peaceful, sustainable solution and bring peace, not just to our region but internationally as well.

(Syeda Qurat-ul-Ain, Independent Urdu):    For the sake of repeating question, what I asked yesterday, can you please confirm if America and Iran are closing in on one page memo?

Spokesperson:    Look, I do not know whether it's a one page or a two page – that would depend on the font as well larger font go on to two pages (laughs) I do not have any detail.

(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News):    Sir, when that day will be dawning, when you will divulge something about these talks, which is my lighter query as the first part. The second is that one of the interlocutors has indicated that the next ceremony that could be the signing ceremony could take place in Geneva, Islamabad. How would you react if it is shifted to Geneva and is Islamabad prepared to host that type of a ceremony where only the signatures are to be inked?

Spokesperson:    It is not for us to discuss or divulge the details on the substance of talk. I have stated it before, and I can reiterate that as an honest facilitator and mediator, it is incumbent on us to uphold the trust of respective positions. So, we will uphold that trust, and we will not breach it. We will jealously guard any information that we have, particularly with respect to the specifics. We would welcome the settlement wherever it takes place. Of course, if it takes place in Islamabad, it will be an honor and a privilege to host it. We continue to work with this sentiment.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder):    Sir, referring to One Constitution, Avenue saga. There is, and there was a talk of the town that four EU nations, demarche Pakistan on serving eviction notice to the European Union, different diplomats or nationals. Do you confirm, sir?

Spokesperson:    I am sorry. I don't have the details. I can get the details. I am not aware of any such demarche.

(Ishtiaq Rao, APP):    One year after the Marka-e-Haq, there is a wave of analysis and reports, notably Washington Post, Congressional Research Service and US scholar Elizabeth Threlkeld that next clash between Pakistan and India is inevitable, and it would be more destructive because both countries are working on modern technologies. Do you agree with this assertion that next Pak-India clash will be unavoidable without mediation?

Spokesperson:    Look, it is not for me to predict about the future and give a prognosis on the security of South Asia and beyond. But I can tell you that Pakistan has always underscored the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in settling all our bilateral issues with respect to India. Pakistan's position on these bilateral issues is anchored in international law, in the UN Charter, in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. In no issue between Pakistan and India, Pakistan's position is in contravention to any tenant of international law or the UN charter or the UN Security Council resolutions. You take up any issue, whether it is the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, whether it is about the river waters, whether it is about broader issues of peace & security, arms control & disarmament, even with respect to individuals imprisoned in each other’s country – all our positions are anchored in international law. There is such legal political strength in the argument. When we approach our bilateral relations with India with such legal and political validity, we do not talk of war. We do not talk of clashes. We talk of dialogue and diplomacy. However, if an aggression, which took place exactly a year ago, is imposed on us, Pakistan will respond, and will respond with full strength and all means available. This fact is amply clear, to our adversary in our neighborhood as well.

(Aijaz Ahmed, GNN):    Two questions in respect of Marka-e-Haq, Firstly, elections have taken place in several states of India. In particular, Mamata Banerjee’s 15-year rule in West Bengal is coming to an end. Although these elections are an internal matter for India, they do carry implications for Pakistan as well. The way the election was taken from them raises concerns—there are about 100 seats where the winning margin is smaller than the number of approved votes. Reports emerging from India suggest that BSP intends to install a government in Bangladesh similar to that of Hasina Wajid. Do we have any preparation in this regard? What is your comment on this?

Secondly, I want to ask about the Indus Water Treaty. Yesterday, in his address, Mr. Ishaq Dar stated that any attempt to stop Pakistan’s water would be considered a declaration of war. Pakistan’s legal position is quite strong, but it seems to have stalled at one point in the international arbitration court. What options do we have to compel India to implement the Indus Water Treaty—apart from war?

Spokesperson:    Regarding the first question elections in the different Indian states is an internal matter of India. We do not interfere in the internal affairs of our neighboring country, including India. So, I will not comment on that.

On Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan reserves the right of exploring all legal political mechanisms enshrined in the treaty and under international law, to claim our right on the waters of the Indus Basin system. We will explore all options, and of course, they remain on the table. Some of these options are underway, you know, in the context of the proceedings by the Indus Water Commissioners. So, all options are on the table. We are also monitoring how far the treaty is being implemented or violated, in favour of river flows, the patterns, the amount of water coming in, the variations (in flow), everything is being documented. So, this is an issue on which there is a complete focus, not just of our Ministry, but our Indus Water Commissioners and all relevant government institutions. I can assure you that all efforts will be made and are being made, that not a drop of water is stolen from Pakistan from what is our right.

(Tahir Khan, NNI):    There were two agreements among the tribal elders. The recent one was in Bajaur and Kunar, and there was a ceasefire along the border. And before this agreement, there was another one that was in Chitral and Nuristan, because exchange of fire had closed some roots for the common people. So, my question is: have the governments failed, or is it that both sides lack ability? Or is it incompetent governance that prevents them from solving these problems? One thing. The second thing is that all border points have been closed since October 12. Visas issue they have stopped. Pakistani visas, transit is almost stopped for the last eight months. Bilateral trade is stopped. Bilateral channels. They are closed. Mediators, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and your very trusted friend and iron brothers, China efforts, there is nothing about Urumqi. What can we say—has Afghanistan become a new India for Pakistan? Or still, we can say that there are chances that again relation would become normal, and we would be brotherly, and Muslim countries?

Spokesperson:    On the agreements amongst the tribal and the people of Bajaur, Kunar, Chitral, Nuristan: these developments are welcoming. These developments demonstrate that people of both sides of the border want peace. This sentiment is there in the Government of Pakistan as well. The only problem is that while aspirations of the people, particularly of the adjoining provinces of Afghanistan with Pakistan, those people they yearn for peace; the fact is that within the territory of Afghanistan, the elements are operative, who are against peace, fomenting engineering, planning terrorist attacks in Pakistan. So, the question arises how far is the ability of the ruling Taliban administration to control, neutralize and check these terrorist elements, which are operating on their soil with impunity and at times in cohorts and in alliance with the local governments including Taliban regime as well. The International reports have corroborated that there is an environment of impunity and space for these terrorist elements in Afghanistan to operate. So, it all boils down to this one issue.

Pakistan and Afghanistan, the people of the two countries have no major dispute, no discord. We both share the same religion, the same ethnicity, the same racial stock, same aspiration for peace. But this one-point issue of terrorism, affecting Pakistan, emanating from Afghan soil, is holding back our relations, and this will hold back our relation, as long as the Taliban regime in Kabul, does not understand the gravity of the situation and do not check it. Unfortunate, these (terrorists) elements are the cause of discord. So, yes the border remain closed and we can understand the problems faced by the traders and local people you rightly mentioned, a series of steps that are blocking the relations. However, the underlying root cause of all this problem is the fact that Afghan soil is being used for terrorist attacks against Pakistan. So, it's important for Kabul to realize that there should be zero tolerance for any terrorist activity in Pakistan emanating from Afghanistan. So, when this realization is embedded in the mindset of the Taliban regime, and as a result, when they make unwavering written assurances to Pakistan that their soil will not be used, rest of our issues can be solved very easily – whether it is the border closure, whether it's the visa issues, trade blockade etc. 

Instead of focusing on the symptoms, we need to understand that what is the underlying problem or root causes that is causing these symptoms, in terms of border closure and other issues. That root cause is terrorism from Afghanistan into Pakistan.

(Adeel Bashir, ROZE News):    I have two questions. The first one is the closed ended question; Pakistan has requested the US to pause Hormuz operation? As stated by United States of America, President Trump. Second one is, how does Pakistan see that US may want to end this war due to pressure of midterm elections or intentionally facing that US has lost a war?

Spokesperson:    I'm not sure what do you mean by pause in operation. The US did announce to pause Project Freedom. So, I am sure that you would be aware that what was Project Freedom and what that pause entails. So, if you understand the dynamics of Operation Freedom and the fact the US has announced to pause it, you would understand that what is the position on the Strait of Hormuz. On his part, the Prime Minister of Pakistan had welcomed this pause as I said. 

As regards your second question, we want a peaceful settlement, a peaceful solution, irrespective of what the causes are or and how the countries are compelled to reach a diplomatic solution. So, I think let's not focus on the causes but focus on the effect. And the effect should be that there is peace, there is peaceful settlement – we hope for that effect to take place.

(Abbas Jaffar, Daily District News):    My question is that Balochistan is severely affected by terrorism, and we refer to it as “Fitna Ul Hindustan.” Just yesterday, a colonel from the Pakistan Army was martyred there. Pakistan is playing a very positive role in trying to end the war between Iran and America, and Iran has been targeted because it is accused of promoting terrorism. So, my question is, are we only making efforts for others, or in the current session, are we also taking steps to urge America and international organizations to eliminate the terrorism coming from Balochistan?

Secondly, sir, regarding Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was captured from Balochistan—on the occasion of "Marka-e-Haq," is there any plan to execute him?

Spokesperson:    On terrorism in Balochistan, there's the security side of it, and then there is the diplomatic or a political side of it. On the security side, yes, you rightly mentioned the martyrdom of our valiant military officer and many others, civilians and law enforcement agencies. These are a very sentimental moments for us that are our brothers and sisters are being martyred. On the security side, the law enforcement agencies remain vigilant. They try their best to prevent the terrorist attacks. But as you know about these terrorist attacks, that the security forces have to be successful all the time, but the terrorist has to be successful only once. So, this is the imbalance or the dichotomy that we are facing with. But our security forces remain vigilant. The ISPR has also been briefing you about it. Our Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Information have been briefing about various law enforcement actions. The government of Balochistan also have been briefing on this issue. 

On the diplomatic side, I can assure you that these acts of terrorism, the groups that are operating there, their support externally, are being reported and registered in all global institutions, relevant UN institutions and platforms for counterterrorism. Our case there is quite strong. Of course, it has connections with Afghanistan, which I elaborated in the last answer as well. So, the effort on Balochistan to curb terrorism in Balochistan is comprehensive from the law enforcement perspective as well as from the diplomatic perspective. 

As regards Kulbhushan Jhadev, the case is there. The individual is in Pakistan's custody. The law will take its course on this case.

(Mateen Haider, GTV): Thank you, Mr. Spokesperson. Again, back to Marqa e Haq, last year, when US President Trump announced ceasefire between India and Pakistan, there was another aspect of that, the US President, I quote, that will sit together and will hold dialogue. So far, dialogue is not taking place, to whom you will hold responsible India, which is running away from dialogue and making jingoistic statements continuously over last one year. Second part of my question, over last one year, India is building up its defense system, again getting Rafael, again getting Russian S400 system. How you see this massive Indian Defense buildup over last one year again?

Spokesperson: On the first part of your question: Pakistan has never shied away from dialogue with India, on any issue. The fact that dialogue has not taken place cannot be blamed on Pakistan. I think we have, on a number of occasions, expressed our opinion, our readiness for dialogue. But of course, it takes two to have a dialogue. Even a dialogue has to be meaningful; it has to be a dialogue and not a monologue. So, whilst we would not like to be seen to be asking for a dialogue, we have never shied away from holding one. As to who is responsible for no dialogue is for everybody to judge.

Regarding your second question about the Indian arms buildup and force modernization, yes, we are keeping a watch on this matter. Indian force modernization, particularly its acquisition of platforms and systems, at times, go much beyond South Asia and threaten the world at large. In the wake of this arms buildup Pakistan will ensure that our credible minimum deterrence is maintained. We are mindful of the impact of India's force modernization on strategic stability in South Asia. I can assure you that our military preparedness and our own defense acquisitions would be sufficient to maintain our robust defense, robust military preparations and maintain our credible minimum deterrence with respect to India.

(Asif Shehzad, REUTERS): I mean, pardon if this question is already asked, because I am a bit late, so I have two questions on Iran conflict. The first question is that there are reports that the two sides are closing in on a deal like I mean, how close the two sides could be, anything Pakistan would want to share as a mediator, and Iran is supposed to respond to a US proposal today, and that proposal should be coming through Pakistan. Any update on that?
Second question is that there are some expulsions from UAE, particularly Shia Muslims. So any comment you would want to share, please. Thank you very much.

Spokesperson: I have answered the first part of your question about Iran. In diplomacy, there is no standard metric system evolved which would say that how close or how far we are from a settlement. I wish there was a standard meter, centimeter, yard, kilometers, milliliter, such kind of a matrix, which would tell me in diplomacy, how close or how far we are towards a settlement. What I can tell you, is that we remain positive, optimistic, and we hope that a settlement will be sooner rather than later.

And as regard your question on UAE, I am not aware of what aspersions are you referring to. I cannot answer this question because of a very broad nature of what you said. I am not sure what you mean by aspersions.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya News): I need your comment on that Pakistan has opened six transit routes for Iran. So, I need your comment on it, and is there any plan to expand this transit routes or not? Thank you.

Spokesperson: I will refer you to the Ministry of Commerce on this. I believe this was a follow up administrative order to the Agreement between Pakistan and Iran (signed in 2006-07). This is about two decades old agreement which has been updated for operationalization. As regard its status, I would refer you to Ministry of Commerce.

(Muhammad Anas Ahsan Mallick, Asia One News): Earlier last week, we heard statements from the Indian side in their bilateral meeting with the Italian Defense Minister asking them explicitly to not give any defense technologies to Pakistan and this is not the first instance. We have seen New Delhi's obsession with Pakistan. Previously, Indian Defense Minister in his bilateral meeting with the Dutch Defense Minister, he asked the same thing, In the meeting with the German Defense Minister, he asked the same thing. And second part to this is the US has also approved the radar up gradation on the F-16s, which, again, New Delhi had explicitly asked not to be done. What is your comment on both issues? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Indian reaction to Pakistan's defense relations with other countries is not new. Indians have been giving such reactions in the past as well. It reflects a paranoia that they have with respect to status of our defense forces. I can assure you that we are engaged with all our partners with respect to our relation in the area of Defense. No diplomatic move by India can offset these relations, which have a trajectory and an institutional strength of their own. I mean, these Indian, Indian demarches to third countries, cannot impact Pakistan's defense relations with those countries because our relationship has its own strength, its own trajectory, at its own institutional merits.

(Zahid Farooq Malik, Daily Metro Watch): Sir, it is mostly observed that when war stops then negotiations proceed. In recent past, if we look at Israel – Lebanon ceasefire or if we look at America – Iran ceasefire, last year when Indo – Pak ceasefire was implemented, why there was less concentration on negotiation? 

Spokesperson: You are referring to this statement by the Prime Minister and our Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister also weighed on this issue, and he also made a statement. Our statements were in support of UAE, in support of solidarity with our brotherly country, UAE, who came under attack. Their nationals, their assets were threatened. So, our condemnation of that attack was unwavering and very strong.

(Elian Pelters, New York Times): Thank you Mr. Spokesman, and if you do not mind another question on the UAE. The Pakistani consulate in the UAE has been issuing what appears to be an unusually high number of emergency exit documents known as Outpasses. Can you tell us whether here in Islamabad, those persons have traveled from the UAE to your ministry reports, as well as of daily flights to Faisalabad and Karachi filled with dozens of Pakistan citizens who say they were not given any public reason for the expulsions? 

And second question on the topic, can you confirm or deny whether your government has made inquiries to the Emirati officials, law enforcement agencies about those reports of expulsions?

Spokesperson: Our Mission in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are actively managing individual consular cases brought to their attention by community members or by applicants directly. You mentioned about Emergency Travel Documents (ETD). Yes, these ETDs were issues, mainly driven by administrative actions, including immigration status violation and other legal infractions. The Consulate General in Dubai, for example, I can tell you, issued around 2714 emergency travel documents, while Embassy in Abu Dhabi issued 780 of those, between January to April 2026. So this was the four months period record. I can further tell that deportation basically prompted by a royal court pardon on Eid enabled the release and repatriation of jailed individuals. So this (deportation) took place as a result of our royal pardon to some of these individuals who were held in prison.

Secondly, our Embassy is in touch with the UAE authorities. Our Mission have also ensured that in the wake of the hostilities in the Gulf region, and in the wake of very serious armed attacks against UAE, which we have condemned, our community fully comply with the local laws, with the local instructions. The community, by and large, except for maybe one or two few sporadic cases, have been cooperating with the local authorities. So, I think this is what the status is. The Ministry of Interior and relevant departments are also seized of this matter (repatriation). This matter is proceeding as per law. I do not see any political reason for their deportation. These are primarily legal cases, which are being taken care of, both by our diplomatic missions in UAE as well as by the UAE authorities.

Thank you.
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