Transcript of the Weekly Press Briefing by the Spokesperson, Thursday March 27, 2025
Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Assalam-o-Alaikum,
Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
I welcome you all at the weekly press briefing.
On the direction of the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister, the Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq, visited Kabul on 21-23 March 2025. The Special Representative called on the Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, on 22 March. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on all issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, trade and economic cooperation, as well as people-to-people contacts.
The Special Representative reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to continued engagement and mutually beneficial ties with Afghanistan, and underscored the importance of addressing all issues of concern, particularly security, to further consolidate bilateral ties. Both sides agreed to enhance high-level engagement and dialogue to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The two sides also reinforced the commitment to a mutually beneficial bilateral relationship, with a view to achieving lasting regional peace and stability. The Special Representative also met with Acting Commerce Minister of Afghanistan, Nooruddin Azizi. Both sides discussed bilateral trade and economic relations, as well as cooperation in the areas of transit and connectivity.
The Special Representative reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to reinforcing mutually beneficial ties with Afghanistan. The two sides agreed to harness full potential of regional trade and connectivity for the mutual benefit of both countries.
Upon his return, the Special Representative briefed the DPM/FM about his meetings with the Afghan leadership. The DPM/FM expressed satisfaction at the discussions held with the Afghan side and issued directions to further consolidate bilateral ties, including through high-level engagement and enhancement of trade and transit cooperation.
We have taken note of the press release issued by certain UN experts, which appears to be based on selective and unverified media reports. It is imperative that public statements of this nature adhere to principles of objectivity, avoid selective criticism, reflect factual accuracy, and acknowledge the full context of the situation.
Regrettably, these comments lack balance and proportionality, downplaying civilian casualties inflicted by terrorist attacks while disregarding the crimes committed by miscreants who deliberately disrupt public services, obstruct freedom of movement, and create an atmosphere of insecurity. Any credible assessment must recognize that these elements are not mere protesters but active participants in a broader campaign of lawlessness and violence. Their abuses of law and human rights violations cannot be ignored. Hiding behind a façade of alleged grievances, these elements are operating in collusion with terrorists—evident from their coordinated efforts to obstruct State responses, including synchronized roadblocks facilitating terrorist attacks. The latest proof of this nexus was their unlawful storming of the District Hospital in Quetta, where they forcibly seized the bodies of five terrorists eliminated during the Jaffar Express hostage rescue operation. Three of these bodies were retrieved back from these violent protestors by the police.
Legal proceedings against these individuals are being conducted strictly in accordance with the law of the land. Any statement by UN Mandate Holders that casts aspersions on these proceedings risks undue interference in sub judice matters before domestic courts. Such interventions not only undermine the rule of law but also set a troubling precedent of disregarding sovereign legal processes.
Furthermore, this pattern of selective and disproportionate focus by the UN machinery serves no constructive purpose. Instead, it inadvertently emboldens extremist elements, fuels unwarranted media sensationalism, incites disorder, and—most alarmingly—exacerbates societal polarization and fragmentation.
It is both perplexing and deeply ironic that the statement issued by the UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders stands in stark contradiction to the very essence and spirit of the UN's own Resolution 2354. Rather than supporting a sovereign State in its determined and resolute efforts to combat terrorism, such statements risk legitimizing extremist narratives—an outcome that is not only counterproductive but also fundamentally at odds with the principles the UN purports to uphold.
International human rights law unequivocally prohibits individuals, entities, or groups from weaponizing rights to infringe upon the rights and security of others. It also firmly upholds the right of sovereign States to take lawful and necessary action to maintain public order and ensure the safety of their citizens.
The Government is duty-bound to protect the lives and security of its people, particularly in areas where innocent civilians bear the brunt of foreign-sponsored terrorism. It has consistently pursued policies aimed at fostering social and economic development for all segments of society, regardless of ethnic or religious background. However, the persistent threat posed by terrorists and their enablers—through heinous attacks on civilians, security forces, and vital public infrastructure—undermines these efforts.
In this regard, the measures undertaken by the Government are fully consistent with international law, which categorically prohibits incitement to violence and terrorism. There can be no tolerance, let alone impunity, for terrorists, their facilitators, or their abettors.
Institutional and legal mechanisms remain fully available for all citizens seeking redress in accordance with their constitutional rights.
We maintain an open and constructive dialogue with UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders and will continue our engagement based on principles of mutual respect, objectivity, and adherence to facts.
Pakistan welcomes the recently agreed upon limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine which prohibits attacks on energy infrastructure and ensures safe navigation in the Black Sea. We appreciate the active engagement of the US administration and its leadership in securing the agreement between Russia and Ukraine. We remain optimistic that the new momentum generated by these initial steps will eventually lead to comprehensive and permanent ceasefire.
Pakistan's position on the Ukraine conflict has been consistent. Pakistan has enjoyed friendly relations with both Russia and Ukraine. We have always advocated dialogue and diplomacy, immediate cessation of hostilities and peaceful resolution of this conflict.
Israel's continued and repeated incursions and air strikes into the Syrian territory, continued violations of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, and its declared intent for an indefinite presence and full demilitarisation of Syria are unacceptable, constitute blatant violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity and undermine international law and regional stability. A durable peace in Syria hinges on a credible political transition, national unity and reconciliation and inclusive governance.
We have learnt with serious concern that the Indian authorities have conducted scores of raids on the residences belonging to members of different constituents of All Parties Hurriyat Conference in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The intent of these raids is to crush dissent and intimidate the local people.
We urge the Indian authorities to stop these oppressive measures, and respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people, including their right to self-determination.
I thank you!
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(Farhan Ali, Public News): Sir, can you please update as whether Pakistan has officially taken up the matter of Indian involvement or Afghan involvement in Jaffar Express train hijacking with Indian or Afghan authorities. Your comments?
Spokesperson: About Afghanistan, as I explained to you earlier, our interaction is multifaceted. It's ongoing. Recently, the Special Representative traveled to Afghanistan, and it was a comprehensive discussion where all aspects of bilateral relations were covered. About Indian involvement, we have been highlighting this issue to the attention of international community, including through submission of dossiers, and it's an ongoing effort.
(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): We saw a generic statement by the Foreign Office regarding Special Representative's visit to Afghanistan, could you clarify what specific assurances were given by the Taliban that Afghan soil will not be used against Pakistan?
Spokesperson: Again, with Afghanistan, we have been explaining it before also, we are neighbors and we have a multi-layered interaction with each other, including through diplomatic channels. Special Representative also offers a very important channel of communication. His visit, of course, encompassed all areas of bilateral interest and concern. There was an extensive discussion and this is again an ongoing process.
(Saima Shabbir, Arab News): I have basically two questions, sir. One is that US Congressman introduced a bill to sanction Pakistan for violations of democratic and human rights. What is Pakistan's stance on that?
Mr. Tariq Fatmi is also in the US. So, is this his official visit? If yes, then what is the agenda of his visit? Secondly, in your last briefing, we asked about information regarding the Pakistani journalists' delegation who visited Israel, though, Foreign Office has issued one press release about that, but it does not contain significant information regarding those people, especially that, how they travelled to Israel, on which passport they have travelled. How many people were dual national Pakistanis? Can you please give further details, as it was expected?
(Asghar Ali Mubarak, The Daily Mail International): Although my colleague has asked it all but I want to ask you about last week's statement by the Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, he clearly stated that the American administration will not interfere in any other country's internal matters, and the bill which has recently been passed on 24th March 2025 which is named as Pakistan Democracy Act, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff and especially the Prime Minister has been targeted in the bill. Why foreign office has not issued statement regarding this?
(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD): Sir, regarding Ms. Saima Shabbir's question on Israel, this was the third delegation from Pakistan that visited Israel. Has the Government of Pakistan acted against any member of these delegations? Or revoked their passports? Because this is a clear violation of the instructions on our passport regarding Israel.
(Azaz Syed, Geo News): In the context of the question on Israel, if anyone visits Israel legally, is it possible to take action against him/her? Is there any clause? Please educate.
Spokesperson: About the first question we are aware of the bill being introduced in the House of Representatives. This is an initiative of a single individual legislator. We believe that the timing and context of the bill does not align well with the current positive dynamics of Pakistan-US bilateral relations based on mutual respect, understanding and non-interference in each other's affairs. The bill will have to go through several committees in the House of Representatives and Senate before passing. We hope that the US Congress will continue its supportive role in strengthening Pakistan-US ties and focus on avenues of mutual collaboration that benefit both our peoples and countries. Pakistan remains committed to constitutionalism, rule of law, protection of human rights and freedom of expression, because it considers democracy as a vehicle for prosperity and progress as a nation. As I mentioned earlier, this is an individual legislator's initiative. This is not the position of the US government.
Regarding Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Mr. Tariq Fatimi's visit, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Syed Tariq Fatimi is visiting London, New York and Washington, where he has held bilateral meetings. In London, he met Secretary General of the Commonwealth. During the meeting, he reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the Commonwealth and deepening cooperation in climate action and trade. He also held important meetings with key leaders of US Congress in the United States. He has met with the chairman of the US Congressional Committee on Foreign Affairs, Ranking Member of sub-committee on South Asia and Central Asia on Foreign Affairs Committee, and co-chair of Pakistan caucus already. These discussions focused on Pakistan-US bilateral cooperation and economic relations. The Special Assistant briefed the US leadership on government policies, especially the economic priorities. He explained that promoting bilateral relations, especially in the areas of trade, economy and investment, is among the top priorities of the government. Regional and international issues were also discussed during this meeting.
With regard to the third question, we have explained our position. I can reiterate it. The Government of Pakistan has noted reports regarding Pakistani journalists traveling to Israel. In this regard, it is clarified that the Pakistani passports explicitly state that they are not valid for travel to Israel. Therefore, no such visit is possible under existing regulations. Pakistan's position on Israel remains unchanged. Pakistan does not recognize Israel and steadfastly supports the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders with Al- Quds Al Sharif as its capital. Pakistan reiterates its unwavering commitment to a just and peaceful resolution of the Palestinian issue in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Palestinian people.
I can elaborate this policy further; passport is not valid for travel to Israel, so technically, it's not a possibility. In the past, we have seen such reports that dual nationality holders, who were carrying another passport, traveled on that passport to Israel.
About Mr. Azaz's question, we are trying to figure out the legal implications. Because it is just like a person entering another country without a passport. So the question is that how can he or she enter that country, unless that particular country, through a special arrangement, allows him or her to come. I'll have to check the position of our law on this matter.
(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): A follow up question on Afghanistan, before Muhammad Sadiq Khan, Zalmay Khalilzad visited Afghanistan with several achievements. Regarding the problem of Bagram airbase, do you think that handing over this airbase to the US will lead to a surge in militancy and tensions in the region?
(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Follow up to Mr. Khalid's question, Zalmay Khalilzad who keeps commenting on Pakistan's political and human rights situation. It is being said that two big demands are being made during his visit to Afghanistan, one is related to takeover of Bagram airbase and second is the return of leftover arms and weapons during the evacuation. How true is that? How Pakistan sees this and how easy this situation would be for America?
Spokesperson: As a point of principle, which we have been enunciating this earlier also, it's the sovereign prerogative of Afghanistan, what kind of bilateral relations it wants to develop with other countries, including the United States. So, we don't have any comment to offer on that. Secondly, about the Bagram base related discussions, these are speculative. I can't offer any comment on this.
(Shaukat Piracha, AAJ News): We have been listening consistently that these terrorist sanctuaries inside Afghanistan, are red line for Pakistan, and Pakistan will never tolerate attacks from inside Afghanistan. When this matter was raised with the Afghan authorities, including Mullah Amir Muttaqi or others, what was their response? Do they agree to the substance that Pakistan carries forward?
My second question is about US visit by Special Assistance to Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi Sahab, as asked earlier whether it is an official visit as the US government announced his meeting with Acting Political Under Secretary, Lisa Kenna. What has been discussed over there, whether any security cooperation or revival of the institutional framework, as Lisa heads the diplomatic hierarchy of the United States?
Spokesperson: About the first question you are part of all discussions we have been having in this room, this remains very important, and very high on agenda, and it has been raised through multiple channels, including by the Special Representative. We have been explaining it and pointing it out that this is a critical road block in way of the two countries realizing the full potential of the kind of bilateral relations two neighbors should have. This point remains at the top of the agenda and it will continue till we resolve this problem. About Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Mr. Tariq Fatemi's visit, it is an official visit. Regarding the specifics of the bilateral meetings with the senior US officials, I would say that all matters of bilateral interest come under review.
(Raziq Mehmood Bhatti, Daily Kashmir Express): In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the process of arresting, injuring and harassing Kashmiri separatists has intensified. While the legislative assembly of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is going to present a bill which will reinstate the original status of Kashmir. What is Pakistan's stance on this?
(Saqib Ali Rathore, Daily Kashmir Times): Special Representative to the Prime Minister, Mr. Tariq Fatemi is on an official visit to the US in which he emphasized the implementation of the UNSC resolutions related to Kashmir and plebiscite in Kashmir. Meanwhile, India rejected Pakistani demands calling it unnecessary and illegal. What are your comments?
Spokesperson: About the question of Kashmir Assembly discussions, Pakistan has never acknowledged the supremacy of the Indian constitution in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which remains an internationally recognized disputed territory. Accordingly, there is no point for me to comment on the proceedings of a body that remains subservient to the Indian constitution, and in our view, remains illegal of course. Our position on Kashmir is well known. India has been repeating the same mantra about it. Whatever they say is not relevant. Kashmir remains on the agenda of the UN Security Council. It is an issue which has to be resolved according to the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): The deadline for Afghan Refugee Card Holders to leave Pakistan is approaching and only few days are left. Last time you said that there is no change. But before the visit of the Special Envoy, the Afghan Acting Foreign Minister, he requested Pakistan that this should be gradual. The Afghan Refugees Minister, said that Pakistan should give some more time to refugees, because it is difficult for around 800,000 Afghans to go back. So is there any change in the deadline?
Spokesperson: Not yet.
(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): For in second, with this during Sadiq visit, I think both sides agreed on high level contacts. So because the Deputy Foreign Minister, on July 10 last year, he said he will be visiting in few days, but now almost eight months have passed, but there is nothing. And when he was appointed, the Foreign Minister, Muttaqi invited him that day. So is there any plan when the Foreign Minister, if the Foreign Minister is going to Kabul?
Spokesperson: About the first question, as I said, I will have to recheck with Ministry of Interior but so far, there is no change in the policy of the return of refugees.
Ambassador Sadiq had a good visit, and there had been wide ranging discussions as explained in our press release. As I explained to you the interaction between the two countries continues. There are various proposals being discussed about visits but as soon as anything concrete comes up, I'll share the information with you.
(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya News): I have two questions. Sir, you said the visit of Ambassador Sadiq Khan to Afghanistan is part of an ongoing process. Sir, it is not an ongoing process. A Representative of Pakistani government is there. Was the matter of Jaffer Express taken up to the Afghan authorities? Was the matter of construction of check posts at Torkum border taken up or not? Did we share evidence with them or not?
Second question is that the US has imposed sanctions on some companies in which 19 companies are Pakistanis. So, what is your stance on this as some Pakistani companies were sanctioned in December last year.
Spokesperson: Regarding Ambassador Sadiq's visit to Afghanistan, what I had explained was that interaction with Afghanistan is ongoing. So, it was not that there is a complete rupture and then a visit takes place. Special Representative's visit is a part of ongoing interaction. This was a high-level visit, and an important visit. All issues which you flagged have been raised. Good discussions have taken place, and we look forward to see progress from the Afghan side.
About the second question regarding the US sanctions, the recent imposition of export restrictions by the United States unfairly targets Pakistan's commercial entities without any evidence whatsoever. Such biased and politically motivated actions are counterproductive to the objectives of global export controls and obstruct the legitimate access to technology for socio-economic development.
(Mateen Haider, G News): Annual US intelligence threat assessment report has been published, which says that TTP in Afghanistan poses greater threat to regional and international security. This is what Pakistan used to say, and Pakistan used to express serious concerns about it. So, what are your comments on this US intelligence threat assessment, and do you think on this threat assessment, there could be more closer cooperation between Pakistan and United States in fighting TTP, because Pakistan used to convey to the United States that TTP remains biggest threat to Pakistan's security. Now Americans are confirming it. Thank you.
Spokesperson: We welcome this acknowledgement of the threat TTP poses. And about the second point regarding the US counter- terrorism cooperation, there has never been a hiatus in that. It has been continuing, and it will continue in the days ahead.
(Zeeshan Syed, Neo TV): Sir, my question is related to the US attacks in Yemen and Syria. We condemn Indian activities in occupied Kashmir and condemn Israeli actions in occupied Palestine. Due to friendly relations with Türkiye, we never condemned their actions in Syria. On US airstrikes in Yemen, what is Pakistan's stance on it?
Spokesperson: I already gave our position on this matter comprehensively in my previous briefing.
(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Sir, Elon Musk who is one of the closest allies and advisor of President Trump, his app X is banned in Pakistan. On the other hand, talks are being held to make StarLink operational in Pakistan. In both cases, Pakistan agree or disagree, how does Pakistan see these developments?
Secondly, one of the leaders of Sikh for Justice stated that RAW was involved in the terrorist attack of Jaffar Express. What are your comments?
Spokesperson: About the first question, I would refer you to Ministry of Information Technology, Allowing X or Star Link to work in Pakistan or not is a different domain. These are different decisions. I can't comment on that, because these are technical decisions.
About the second question, we have been repeatedly emphasizing and highlighting the Indian involvement in terrorism in Pakistan, and we have shared dossiers, as I explained earlier, with the United Nations, on this, and it is well known. It's not just Pakistan. In last one year, you have seen they have been orchestrating a global assassination campaign all over the world.
(Muhammad Adnan, Nikkei Asia): Sir, yesterday, it was reported that the talks between Pakistan and China on the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan are underway. So, can you update us on this? What's the development related to these talks?
(Mateen Haider, G News): On same development, there are reports that China has deployed its first military contingent in Balochistan for the protection of its own nationals. Some of the foreign newspapers reported about it. If this is so, please share details.
Spokesperson: About the first question from NikkEi Asia, these are ongoing discussions. You know this is our commitment to ensure security of Chinese personnel in Pakistan. These dialogues are part of that arrangement. And on the second point, I completely deny this; no Chinese forces are being deployed in Pakistan. This is totally false. There is no credibility to these reports.
(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): There are reports that Prime Minister will be visiting Germany next week. What is the schedule of his visit and are there any bilateral meetings planned?
Spokesperson: Prime minister is not going to Germany. There is a Disability Summit and I will share the exact details. I think it is Minister of Health who's going to represent Pakistan.
(Asghar Ali Mubarak, The Daily Mail International): Sir, regarding the situation of human rights in IIOJK and especially how Kashmiri people and Muslims are being treated there in Ramadan. Pakistan has been raising the voice for Kashmir and its people on different forums, will Pakistan further strengthen its voice for the rights of Kashmiri people in IIOJK?
Spokesperson: Yes, we will continue to highlight, and the international community knows about it. The reign of terror unleashed by the Indian occupation forces in Kashmir with complete impunity, and the degree of human rights violations, inside Indian illegal occupied Jammu and Kashmir are well-known. We have been highlighting it and will continue to highlight it.
Thank you very much.
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