Pakistan Denounces Indian Claims, Outlines Diplomatic Agenda
Pakistan firmly rebuked recent inflammatory statements from Indian leaders regarding Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), emphasizing the need for regional peace. The Foreign Office condemned such unwarranted claims, urging Indian politicians to refrain from dragging Pakistan into their internal discourse for electoral gain.
Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch reaffirmed IIOJK’s status as an internationally recognized disputed territory, emphasizing the UN Security Council’s resolutions advocating for a free plebiscite to determine its final status. Additionally, she condemned the ongoing marginalization of Muslims and minorities in India.
Addressing queries, Baloch stated that there were no ongoing backchannel diplomatic efforts between Pakistan and India to normalize bilateral trade. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming participation in the World Economic Forum in Riyadh and the Islamic Summit Conference in Gambia was highlighted, where Pakistan’s priorities in global health, inclusive growth, and regional collaboration would be emphasized.
Baloch also discussed the recent visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, stressing agreements to strengthen economic cooperation and fast-track negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement. Regarding the Pakistan-Iran Gas Pipeline Project, she noted ongoing discussions to address Pakistan’s significant energy needs.
Additionally, she mentioned engagements with US authorities on energy requirements and a high-level delegation visit from China International Development Cooperation Agency to accelerate projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Baloch concluded by calling for an investigation into Israeli war crimes in Gaza and urged for an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian aid access.