Response to Queries regarding Media Reports about an in camera Briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs on 23 December 2015
Responding to questions concerning media reports about the contents of a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs by the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz and Foreign Secretary Mr. Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry on 23 December 2015, the Spokesman clarified that the briefing was provided in an in camera session. It was in line with Pakistan's earlier stated position on various issues raised during the briefing.
Reiterating Pakistan's position, the Spokesman underscored that, in keeping with Pakistan's unflinching commitment to combating terrorism and support for all regional and international efforts to eliminate the menace of terrorism, Pakistan welcomed the formation of the Coalition to counter terrorism and is awaiting further details to decide the extent of its participation in different activities of the Coalition.
The Spokesman further said that Pakistan has a principled position on the situation in Syria based on respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of Syria. We believe that Syrian government and opposition groups should exercise restraint and settle their differences peacefully. Pakistan supports all efforts employed at facilitating a peaceful Syrian-led and inclusive solution that meets the aspirations of the Syrian people through a comprehensive political dialogue.
Islamabad
24 December 2015