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Transcript of the Media Briefing by the Spokesperson Thursday, 06 March 2025

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Office of the Spokesperson
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Transcript of the Media Briefing by the Spokesperson
Thursday, 06 March 2025

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

I welcome you all at the weekly press briefing.

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, received a call from the US National Security Advisor, Michael Waltz on 4th March 2025. The NSA conveyed President Trump's appreciation and thanks for the Government of Pakistan's efforts in countering terrorism.

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister congratulated the NSA on his assumption of office and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to continue its cooperation with the US in the field of counter-terrorism. He also appreciated President Trump's announcement to withdraw the US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan.

DPM/FM also received a telephone call from UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan who conveyed Ramadan greetings to the DPM, leadership and citizens of Pakistan. The two leaders also discussed the results of the recent visit by H.H. the Crown Prince of the UAE to Pakistan.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Denmark's Foreign Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen. Both leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in trade and investment through the promotion of public-private partnerships. Additionally, they reaffirmed their commitment to enhance their collaboration on multilateral platforms.

DPM/FM had a phone call with the Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov. DPM/FM expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality received during the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Azerbaijan to Pakistan. The two leaders agreed to work closely to accelerate the implementation of the discussions made regarding trade and investment during the visit.

The sixth round of Pakistan Italy Bilateral Political Consultations was convened on 28th February in Rome. Pakistan side was led by Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Amna Baloch and the Italian delegation was led by Secretary General Ricardo Guariglia. The two sides while expressing satisfaction at the positive trajectory of bilateral relations reaffirmed their commitment to further expand cooperation in the areas of economy, development, agriculture, defence, higher education and people-to-people contacts. Both sides exchanged views on a number of international and regional issues as well as reiterated to have close coordination in the UN.

Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms Israel's decision to block critical humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, during the Holy month of Ramadan. This latest action is part of Israel's systematic campaign to deny much needed humanitarian aid to millions of Palestinians in dire need. This constitutes yet another blatant violation of international law by the occupying power and could imperil the ceasefire agreement.

We call on the international community to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza, and to hold Israel accountable for imposition of collective punishment through denial of humanitarian aid to millions of civilians.

KASHMIR

We reject the remarks made by the Indian External Affairs Minister on Jammu and Kashmir during an event at the Chatham House, London, held on 5 March 2025. The remarks misrepresent the ground realities and contravene the international law.

Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally-recognized disputed territory. The relevant UN Security Council resolutions clearly stipulate that the final status of the Jammu and Kashmir is to be determined through a free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices. India's prevarication cannot change this reality.

We also wish to underscore that any electoral exercise, pursuant to Indian Constitution, cannot serve as a substitute to grant of right to self-determination. Similarly, the decades-old grievances of the Kashmiri people cannot be meaningfully addressed through economic activity down the barrel of a gun.

Instead of making baseless claims about Azad Jammu and Kashmir, India should vacate the large territories of Jammu and Kashmir, under its occupation for last 77 years. It must realize that a peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people, is imperative for a lasting peace in South Asia.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar travels to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to take part in the Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM), which is set to take place today, in Jeddah. This high-level meeting will discuss joint actions in response to the deteriorating conditions in Palestine due to ongoing Israeli aggression, violations of Palestinian rights, and calls for their displacement.

At the upcoming OIC-CFM session, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister will reaffirm Pakistan's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and emphasize its principled position. He will advocate for the full withdrawal of Israel from all occupied territories, including Jerusalem, denounce the unacceptable proposal for further displacing Palestinians, and call for restoration of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, such as their right to return to their homeland and the establishment of a viable, contiguous, and sovereign Palestinian state based on the pre-June 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

I thank you!

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(Mateen Haider, G News): Would you like to share more details that led to capturing of most high-profile terrorist Sharifullah? Although it has been circulating that Pakistani intelligence acted on a tip or on information shared by the US intelligence which led to Sharifullah's capture. Exactly when did this intelligence cooperation start? When the United States officially requested for such assistance? How much time it took for Pakistani intelligence to finally trace and hand him over to the Americans? Was he handed over from Pakistan or sent to Afghanistan after being captured?

Spokesperson: Intelligence cooperation between Pakistan and the United States is longstanding. The foreign ministry doesn't comment on the specifics of intelligence cooperation. Broadly speaking, the Prime Minister's tweet regarding the handing over of Sharifullah to the American authorities is very comprehensive, which reads as follows:

"We thank the US President Donald Trump for acknowledging and appreciating Pakistan's role and support in counter terrorism efforts across the region. In the context of Pakistan's security forces, recent apprehension of ISKP's top tier operational commander Sharifullah, who is an Afghan national. The wanted terrorist was apprehended in a successful operation conducted in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region. As is well known, Pakistan has always played a critical role in counter terrorism efforts aimed at denying safe havens to terrorists and militant groups the space to operate against any other country. We remain steadfast in our resolve and unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In this effort, Pakistan has rendered great sacrifices, including the lives of over 80,000 of our brave soldiers and citizens. The resolve of our leadership and our people remains unflinching to eradicate the menace of terrorism from our country. We will continue to partner closely with the United States in securing regional peace and stability."

Pakistani law enforcement agencies, its efforts against terrorists, including against ISKP, have resulted in significant successes including arrest of Sharifullah. And pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions, 1267 and 1373 Pakistan collaborated with the US. Pakistan has a policy of zero tolerance against terrorism.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Continuing to your last comment, that Pakistan collaborated with the United States and handed over Sharifullah , the US State Department Spokesperson stated yesterday that He was also investigated by Pakistani investigators and then an FBI team flew over the weekend and investigated him. Would you want to share details on the investigations and as per what law was this expedition or handover carried out?

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): US Defence Secretary stated in a statement that Washington has set a condition for Pakistan if it wanted to align with the Trump and for that the arrest of Sharifullah was necessary.

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): Sir, after the recent government's takeover, how many terrorists have been or would be handed over to the US? Have we been provided with a list of terrorists to be arrested, by the US?

(Zeeshan Syed, Neo TV): Sir, as has Sharifulllah been presented to any court since his hand over to the US? Because when an accused is arrested, it is imperative to present him before the court. Secondly, We do not have any law or MoU with the US regarding exchange of prisoners, then on what grounds did we hand over a high-profile terrorist to the US and without presenting him in any court first?

(Raja Mohsin Ijaz, ARY News): During the talks on counter terrorism between Pakistan and the US, did the US side offer any potential cooperation in the field of security or intelligence to Pakistan? Or the talks were just limited to the counter terrorism?

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): Can Pakistan hand over a citizen of one country to a different country altogether? What does Pakistan's laws say about this?

(Azadeh Moshiri, BBC): What can you tell us specifically about Sharifullah's role in the 2021 attack, specifically in terms of his own role and also whether there are any other people involved that Pakistan is pursuing in collaboration with the United States?

Spokesperson: About the question on law, I would refer you to the Ministry of Interior for the details as there are certain legal procedures involved, which have been followed in this entire process. With regards to the statement of the Defense Secretary, I will get back to you on that. Regarding question about his specific role in the attack, I don't have information about operational intelligence matters. Finally, about the new offers from the US side, the intelligence cooperation has been ongoing and this is not the first time that a joint activity has been carried out by both countries.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Do you think that the reaction from Pakistan side on the statement by President Trump is a kind of overreaction as one statement sparked reaction from the Prime Minister? Was there any fear in the government circle that we have come out of after this statement? Secondly, the Indian State Minister, Jatinder Singh had made a statement about Kashmir in which he said the only person who can take back Kashmir is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. How do you respond to the claim that India can take back Azad Kashmir from Pakistan?

Spokesperson: About the first question, I don't see any question of fear or non-fear or bravado in States reaction. This is a rather factual statement which addresses government of Pakistan's position. An important development has taken place and country's Prime Minister responded on behalf of the government, explaining and articulating Pakistan's position. With regards to unfortunate and regrettable statement, we are witnessing an alarming increase in provocative statements from different Indian leaders asserting unwarranted claims over Azad Jammu and Kashmir, however, historical facts, legal principles, moral considerations and ground realities all refute these fictitious claims. Jammu and Kashmir as an internationally recognized disputed territory and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions clearly stipulate that its final status shall be determined by the will of its people through a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices. The Indian leaders would be wise to help implement these resolutions instead of harboring delusions of grandeur.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): President Donald Trump appreciated Pakistan's role in the war on terror. He is also aiming to take back the control of Bagram Airport and all the weapons left there. If America starts its expeditions again in Afghanistan, what could be the response of Afghan interim government and other fighter groups there? What could be its implications on the region especially on Pakistan since Pakistan is already facing many challenges? Need your comment on this.

Spokesperson: The issue of Bagram is essentially between the United States and Afghanistan, two sovereign states. We don't have any comment to offer on that. Secondly, about the implications of aggression against Afghanistan, at this point the situation is speculative and I cannot offer any comment on that.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Sir, according to security forces, Afghan nationals have been involved in the terrorist activities during the past week. On what level Pakistan has lodged its protest with Afghans or with the international community? How can Pakistan address this issue with the Afghan authorities? What is the mechanism?

Spokesperson: We desire good neighborly relations with Afghanistan, the two countries connected by layers of complementarities; however, the terrorism still remains the core issue, which is bedeviling prospects of better phase of relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is demonstrated and proven that the enabling environment in Afghanistan for terrorists primarily Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, who enjoy sanctuaries there, is helping them carry out terrorist activities in Pakistan. This is a constant issue which we have been raising with the Afghan authorities in order to be addressed.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency):Torkham has been closed since February 21 and there had been two round of talks, on February 24 and March 3rd, but the talks have failed and there had been clashes between the two sides, leading to some casualties on both sides. In the second meeting it was claimed that Islamabad and Kabul would decide to reopen the border. 1000s of vehicles are stranded on both sides. What exactly is the issue?When will the borders be reopened?

Spokesperson: Thank you Tahir Saab for flagging a very important issue. We have recently seen media reports which falsely claim that Torkham border crossing remains closed due to unilateral actions by Pakistan. Let me dispel this impression by giving you facts on the matter as they stand. For the past couple of days, the Afghan side has carried out an illegal and unilateral construction activity within the Pakistani territory at two points along the Pakistan border. Despite these provocations Pakistan has shown restrained and requested border flag meetings to resolve the matter peacefully which were eventually held. However, it's unfortunate that, alongside its illegal construction action, the Afghan side also resorted to indiscriminate fire at Torkham border terminal and our military post. Until now, the matter remains unresolved. Pakistan strongly condemns these repeated provocations and actions against Torkham border terminal, which is part of integrated transit trade management system, established to promote bilateral and transit trade. Afghan actions resulting in forced closure of the border crossing at a time of economic hardship in Afghanistan is hardly sensible and will only aggravate the situation. We therefore call upon the interim Afghan authorities to shun violence and resolve matters through peaceful means, which according to UN Charter and international law, is the most suitable method for resolving any dispute between two neighboring countries.

(Raziq Mehmood Bhatti, Daily Kashmir Express): Sir, with regards to Kashmir, there is another issue regarding IIOJK's land being allotted to the foreign businessmen such as Sri Lankan businessmen. Similarly, a test cricketer has also been allotted more than 25 acres of land. Has this issue been raised yet?

Spokesperson: This is part of the draconian illegal measures being taken by the Indian occupation authorities. We out rightly condemn it. This is just one segment of the overall regime of repression and oppression perpetrated by India in the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. We condemn it.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Afghan Taliban Spokesperson has commented yesterday in a televised interview that Pakistan has training camps of IS, particularly in Mastung, Balochistan. He also alluded that the arrest of Sharifullah also took place from the same particular camp in question. He also went on to allege that this camp is actively under the supervision of the Pakistani military. How do you react to that?

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Previously, it was an SOP that whenever we would arrest any foreign national from Pakistan, we would first inform the country from whom that national would hail from. So, this time did we talk to Afghan Taliban that this is your national and we have apprehended him?

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder):Afghan Spokesperson hinted that IS was behind the targeted attack on Akora Khattak seminary. Taliban claims confirm the presence of IS footprints in Pakistan, how do you see this?

Spokesperson: First of all, about your question regarding training camps of ISKP in Pakistan, we categorically reject these completely unfounded allegations. They are nothing but sad attempt to deflect the reality of providing sanctuaries to the terrorist elements in Afghanistan, which are acting against Pakistan. Mr. Aizaz's question is a question of operational and legal details and for that I will refer you to the Ministry of Interior. With regards to Akora Khattak tragedy, We all, and the whole Pakistani nation mourns it. We do not entertain any insinuation from across the border. Our investigations are ongoing, our own law enforcement agencies are working on it and we hope that we will make a breakthrough and the perpetrators will meet justice.

(Almas Haider Naqvi, Daily Dunya): My question is about the situation around Ukraine. It seems that the collective West, has an affliction within. One force is trying to have negotiations and have peace in Ukraine. On the other hand, we can see the provision of ammunition, so they are trying to continue the war. My question is that whether Pakistan will stand with the peace or the continuation of war?

Spokesperson: On Ukraine we have, on a number of occasions, explained our policy. We desire peace. It is a tragic conflict. Any initiative which promotes peace and which leads to peaceful resolution of this conflict, we will welcome it. We have friendly relations with Russia. It's a very robust ongoing cooperation. We also have friendly relations with Ukraine. And thirdly, like all developing countries, Pakistan also has been negatively impacted by this tragic conflict. Any initiative, or proposal for peace, we would support it. We desire peace like the rest of international community.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): How does Pakistan see the US President Trump's gratitude for it? Secondly, for how long Sharifullah was held in custody in Pakistan, from where he was arrested and did Afghan government play a role in his capture? Also, Sharifullah was involved in many terror incidents in Pakistan and there many other people who are wanted by the US. Will Pakistan hand them over to the US?

Spokesperson: I have already addressed this question in detail.

(Shrouq Tariq, AFP): There are media reports about a new travel ban on Pakistanis and Afghans by the US. Your comments on that.

Spokesperson: I haven't seen any report as such.

(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): Soon, after the news came out about Sharifullah, the National Security Adviser, Michael Walz spoke to Deputy Prime Minister about which you just talked. How can Pakistan be helpful in retrieving the leftover weapons in Afghanistan. Pakistan doesn't have good relations with Afghan Interim government and whether do you think that arresting and handing over Sharifullah can be a new beginning for normalizing security relationship with the United States?

(Sara Zaman, VOA): About the weapons in Afghanistan, since the Foreign Minister also welcomed these statements by Washington that they want their weapons back. Does that mean that Pakistan is in favor of some kind of US action in Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: Our security cooperation with the US has been an ongoing process. Security, counter-terrorism, and intelligence cooperation is ongoing. There was not any hiatus which would need to restart because of a particular event. Secondly, the assertion of Pakistan supporting any US action in this regard is too speculative. This is not what we have said. This is a matter between Afghanistan and the US. USA left its weapons there. We have supported the idea that the US can try to get its weapons back. Our concern is that those weapons have been found being used by terrorists in their operations inside Pakistan. We have flagged it. If the US can make any efforts to get those weapons back, it would be helpful for the overall regional security environment.

(Mateen Haider, G News): You have a very robust counter-terrorism desk within the Foreign Ministry. So, you must be having relevant data regarding how many foreign terrorist outfits are operating inside Pakistan? What is the official data available with you? Are there none or few which have strong footprints in Pakistan?

Spokesperson: I'll have to check the specifics with the authorities. Whatever we can share, I'll try to.

(Syeda Qurat ul Ain, Independent Urdu): What was the kind of cooperation between US and Pakistan regarding Sharifullah, and was it intelligence sharing, or as the US Defense Secretary has said in an interview that intelligence was given by US while Pakistan took the action. Your comments.

Second question is that the Afghan Government spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid has said in an interview that an ISIS training center has been operating in Mastong, Balochistan, which is financed and under the protection of Pakistan Army. Your comments.

Spokesperson: I have addressed both questions already.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): President Trump's policies and actions such as tariff, trade, cutting off aid for polio programs and other similar matters are a media highlight all over the world. Now Europe is even not pleased with these policies. So, how the developing countries like Pakistan is affected by this? Your comments.

Spokesperson: The larger approach which the US adopts in terms of its relations with Europe or other countries, I don't have any comment to offer. About Pakistan- US relations, it remains a rich relationship in terms of economy, trade, security, cooperation, people-to-people contacts, students, and all other aspects. USA remains our largest export destination. That's what I can say on this. I hope it satisfies because about relations between Europe and the US, or US relations with any other countries, we have no comment to offer.

(Abdullah Momand, Dawn News): In January 2025, premier intelligence agency of Pakistan arrested six citizens of a foreign country in Islamabad on alleged links with the ISKP. I cannot mention the country's name. It is, as per the official correspondence between the Embassy of Azerbaijan and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan; these citizens have been handed over to the relevant country to face the trial. So on what terms and conditions these citizens have been handed over to the relevant country?

Spokesperson: I will check with the Foreign Ministry desk also, but about specific legal aspects of handing over, I will again refer you to Ministry of Interior. There are certain procedures in place which are followed before this takes place. But about arrest and operational details, I will see if the Foreign Ministry has this data. I will get back to you on this.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, about two months back, we were hearing reports from Foreign Ministry that there is likelihood of Pakistani Foreign Minister's visit to Afghanistan. We also witnessed that when Pakistan carried out attacks inside Afghanistan then things changed. What is the status of or likelihood of Pakistani Foreign Minister's visit to Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: Both countries have embassies in each other's respective capitals. Diplomatic engagement is ongoing. There are problems that we want to address and they are primarily centered on terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. But there is no date finalized in the immediate future. If there is any development, we will keep you posted on that.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Shafqat Sahab, the live interaction that took place between the US and the Ukrainian Presidents, how do you see it in the context of diplomatic norms?

Spokesperson: I have no comment to offer on that.

(Saqib Ali Rathore, Daily Kashmir Times): At this time, how many Pakistanis have been deported from all over the world? Can you share the exact numbers.

Spokesperson: Within which period are you talking about?

(Saqib Ali Rathore, Daily Kashmir Times): 2025.

Spokesperson: I will check and get back to you.

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): Ever since power assumption of current setup, how many terrorists were arrested and handed over to the US. Did America provide any list of terrorists that are to be arrested or is it the last list?

Spokesperson: As far as intelligence and security cooperation is an ongoing thing. The threats keep evolving. So, there is no definite full stop. This is not event based as such, but I don't have details. I'll see if I can get them for you, but primarily on intelligence matters we do not comment.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): Why Pakistan is facing issue of terrorism from Afghanistan and what are the reasons behind it. Despite the fact that Afghanistan shares border with many other countries, only Pakistan is a victim of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. This question is also raised in political circles. What are your comments and secondly, has any breakthrough occurred on action against TTP after Pakistan provided locations of TTP hideouts to Afghan authorities?

Spokesperson: About why this terrorism is emanating from Afghanistan, I think the question better be addressed to Kabul. We are the victim of terrorism, which emanates from Kabul, and this is something which is hurting us. We have been flagging it, and this is an important and serious issue that needs to be resolved. About Afghanistan having border with many countries, but only Pakistan was being a victim of terrorism from Afghanistan. This is again a question which should better be referred to Kabul. In none of the neighboring countries, Afghans enjoy this kind of hospitality, which has been extended by Pakistan. The relatively easy movement, millions of refugees living, coming and going, medical care, and education, none of the neighbors offer this kind of facility for the Afghan citizens.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): What is Pakistan's policy on Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: I have reiterated multiple times, our policy on Afghanistan. We want peaceful, friendly relations, the way it should be between two neighboring countries. More so, when the neighboring countries were tied together by bonds of history, culture, language. So this is the kind of good relationship we want and the primary obstacle remains terrorism emanating from Afghanistan.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Whenever we hand over anybody to any foreign country, we mostly depend legally on the extradition laws, which are mutually agreed. We know that we have a kind of arrangement with America. Did we follow the extradition laws while handing over this particular man?

Spokesperson: All legal and administrative steps are taken whenever such a thing happens. But again, for details, I'll refer you to Ministry of Interior.

(Usman Zahid, BBC): We have been seeing this reaction from Pakistan, Prime Minister has celebrated this news and they are seeing it as a very good step in reviving Pakistan - US relations after this arrest. But what exactly Pakistan got in return. You keep referring to Ministry of Interior, but we haven't seen any single statement issued by the Ministry of Interior, and we don't know exactly who to approach to get this type of reaction.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Was there any head money on Mr. Sharifullah? And if the head money was there, is Pakistan going to receive that money?

Spokesperson: This is, again, speculative. I don't have information about the head money. About this event being celebrated this is an individual subjective assessment. One of our colleagues referred that there is an air of fear in Pakistan. You refer to the statement as celebratory. So, I would refer to the statement as state's response to a development in a clinical way. So, I mean, any adjective you want to use is your choice. But again, on the questions of details about the legal and procedural aspects, I will again refer you to Ministry of Interior; they should be able to respond to you on that.

(Czechangez Khan Jadoon, Daily Payam-e-Khyber): How many Pakistanis are in the American, Indian, Saudi and Emirati jails for past two years and what steps were undertaken for their release?

Spokesperson: We provided figures on Pakistanis in Indian jails in last few briefings. We also have figures on UAE, Saudi Arabia and the USA. What I had explained earlier is that in terms of international law, there is the Vienna Convention on Consular relations which provides the legal regime. So any individual who is foreign national arrested in another country, there are certain procedures which are followed. But the important point here is, in some of the cases, we have seen that, for example, our citizen is arrested, or any foreigner is arrested in Pakistan, if the individual does not want his or her embassy to be informed, the arresting state does not inform that. This also has to be kept in mind.

(Sara Zaman, VOA): Reuters has reported that the US administration is looking at restricting the entry of people from certain countries to the US. And if they have said in their report that Afghanistan is on the list, and possibly Pakistan could also be on the list. Has the Trump administration reached out to Pakistan to discuss the vetting insecurity process of people when they leave to go to other countries, to go to the US. And if Pakistan ends up on this list, from where citizens cannot come to the US, what would be Pakistan's approach? How does Pakistan ensure that its citizens have access, legal access, to go to other countries when they have a visa?

Spokesperson: About the first part of the question, the consular consultations continue between the two countries. This is one of the layers of diplomatic interaction between two countries with diplomatic and friendly relations. About the second question, what I can say is, it is speculative at this point in time for me to comment. I haven't seen the report.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): US based organization Freedom House has put Pakistan in the list of quasi sovereign states. Transparency International also commented on position of level of corruption in Pakistan. What are your comments on these two reports?

Spokesperson: I will have to check about the specifics of the report, but broadly, what I can say is that our constitution provides sufficient guarantee and safeguards to ensure human rights in our country. Elections are held regularly. Pakistan is a constitutional democracy, that's what I can say on this.