Pakistan has firmly rebuffed provocative statements and assertions made by Indian leaders regarding the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), emphasising the need for regional stability amidst escalating tensions.
The Foreign Office (FO) dismissed recent Indian rhetoric and claims concerning IIOJK, reaffirming that the territory remains an internationally recognised disputed area. FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch underscored the significance of UN Security Council resolutions, emphasising that the final status of Kashmir should be determined through a free plebiscite, reflecting the will of the Kashmiri people.
Baloch condemned ongoing vilification and victimisation of Muslims and minorities in India, urging Indian politicians to refrain from dragging Pakistan into their internal discourse for electoral gains.
Addressing questions during the weekly briefing, the spokesperson clarified that there are currently no ongoing backchannel diplomacy efforts between Pakistan and India to normalise bilateral trade relations.
In other diplomatic engagements, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to attend a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh on April 28-29, upon the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and WEF Founder Klaus Schwab. Baloch highlighted the opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its priorities in global health, inclusive growth, and regional collaboration.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz will participate in the 15th session of the Islamic Summit Conference in Banjul, Gambia, on May 4-5. The summit will focus on enhancing unity and solidarity among Muslim nations, particularly addressing the ongoing situation in Palestine.
Baloch noted the visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, highlighting discussions on strengthening economic cooperation, border security, and advancing negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement. The FO spokesperson also addressed energy needs and engagement with the United States regarding trade deals.
Furthermore, a delegation from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) visited Pakistan to accelerate projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), emphasising bilateral cooperation and development.
Amidst global concerns over the situation in Gaza and the discovery of mass graves, Pakistan called for a thorough investigation into Israeli war crimes, an immediate ceasefire, and unhindered humanitarian aid access.
