Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s independent position on the Gaza conflict, acknowledging statements made by various US officials, including the US Secretary of State.
“Pakistan's position on Palestine issue is clear and it will continue to stand by the people of Palestine in their just struggle for self-determination as well as for the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and contiguous Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital,” he said.
FO spokesperson said the proposal to displace the Palestinians from Gaza is deeply troubling and unjust, emphasising Palestinian land belongs to the Palestinian people.
Regarding Kashmir, he reiterated that Pakistan’s relations are deeply rooted in the Kashmir issue, adding that Pakistan stands ready to respond to any misadventure in the region.
In a weekly briefing, Foreign Office of Pakistan has commented on various diplomatic and security matters, emphasizing the role of provincial and federal governments in foreign negotiations, relations with key global powers, and pressing regional concerns.
The Foreign Office Spokesperson stated that the issue of Jirga will be handled by provincial governments with the assistance of the Foreign Office. However, he clarified that provincial governments generally do not engage in direct dialogues with other countries, as all foreign negotiations are conducted through the federal government.
Bilawal Bhutto's US Visit Not Planned by Foreign Office
Addressing former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s visit to the United States, the Spokesperson confirmed that his trip was not arranged through the Foreign Office and suggested that his party's spokesperson would be in a better position to explain the purpose of the visit.
The Foreign Office urged the Afghan government to take immediate action against terrorist groups operating from its soil, reiterating that Afghanistan itself must resolve the issue of safe havens for militants. The spokesperson also referenced the CIGAR report on Afghanistan, stating that it aligns with Pakistan’s long-standing position on regional security threats.
Bangladesh and Bilateral Relations
When asked about Bangladesh’s internal situation, the spokesperson declined to comment but described Bangladesh as an important brotherly Islamic country.
Security of Pakistan’s Embassy in Germany
The spokesperson expressed concern over the past attack on Pakistan’s embassy in Germany, calling it a sensitive issue that has deeply affected the sentiments of Pakistanis. He noted that Pakistan is in close contact with the German government regarding the incident.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s Mercy Appeal Rejected
The Foreign Office confirmed that Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s mercy appeal to former US President Joe Biden was rejected, and that the US Department of Justice has closed the case. However, the spokesperson added that she can file a new mercy appeal at any time through her legal representatives.
US Deportation of Illegal Immigrants
Regarding the US government’s executive order on illegal immigrants, the spokesperson confirmed that Washington has initiated rapid deportation procedures under the new policy.
Kishanganga and Ritle Water Dispute
The spokesperson announced that the case of impartial experts on the Kishanganga and Ritle hydropower projects will move forward in August 2025.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office reaffirmed its commitment to strong diplomatic ties, national security, and the protection of Pakistan’s interests in global affairs.
