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Transcript of the Weekly Press Briefing by the Spokesperson, Thursday, April 10, 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.

At the invitation of President Aleksandr Lukashenko, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will pay an official visit to the Republic of Belarus from 10 to 11 April 2025. The high-level delegation includes DPM/FM Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar and Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz besides other senior officials. This visit follows President Lukashenko's important trip to Pakistan in November 2024.

During his stay, the Prime Minister will hold talks with President Lukashenko to review progress in areas of mutual interest. Over the past six months, a series of high-level bilateral engagements—including the 8th Session of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) in February 2025 and a subsequent visit by a high-powered mixed ministerial delegation to Belarus in April 2025 - have laid the groundwork for a productive visit.

The two sides are expected to sign several agreements to further strengthen cooperation. The Prime Minister's visit underscores the strong and ongoing partnership between Pakistan and Belarus.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone call with the Advisor for Foreign Affairs of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh, Md. Touhid Hossain. The two leaders exchanged Eid greetings, discussed areas of mutual interest, and reiterated their commitment for future engagements and cooperation.

He also held a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, HH Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud. The two leaders discussed issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed commitment to strengthen existing fraternal ties between the two brotherly countries.

Earlier this week Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone call with the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, and investment in various sectors, especially critical minerals and counterterrorism. The two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations, economic cooperation and regional security, including the situation in Afghanistan and agreed on the need to resolve the issue of US Military equipment left behind in Afghanistan. Both sides further agreed to remain in close contact and to work together to advance the shared interests of both countries.

Earlier this week, a high-level meeting was held between the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and the Minister for Economy of Azerbaijan, Mikayil Jabbarov. The discussion reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to enhancing trade, investment, and long-term economic collaboration especially in sectors like infrastructure, energy, green energy, and IT. Both countries maintain regular bilateral contact through platforms such as the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), with a particular emphasis on Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) collaboration. Both sides look forward to signing a number of agreements and MoUs during the upcoming visit of the President of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in advancing the excellent bilateral cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

Foreign Secretary Ambassador Amna Baloch is currently on an official visit to Amman, Jordan, to lead Pakistan delegation for the 2nd round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Jordan scheduled to be held today.

During the above consultations different regional and international matters of mutual interest and concern, including inter alia current situation in Occupied Palestinian Territories; evolving dynamics in the Levant, developments in South Asia as well as state of cooperation in different domains of Pakistan-Jordan relations would be discussed. Such consultations are aimed at increasing mutual understanding and enhanced coordination on different bilateral, regional and international matters.

Additional Secretary (Europe), Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan, held bilateral consultations with Deputy Secretary General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, David Bertolotti on 7th April 2025. The two sides reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation under the Pakistan-France Bilateral Roadmap for Cooperation (2023); exchanged views on regional and global developments; and pledged to further strengthen bilateral ties, enhance cooperation and maintain close coordination on issues of mutual interest.

Under the direction of Prime Minister Muhamamd Shehbaz Sharif, the Government of Pakistan dispatched relief goods for the earthquake victims in Myanmar. First flight departed from Islamabad International Airport on 1st April 2025, carrying 35 tons of essential supplies.

Pakistan in the strongest possible terms condemns the continued aggression and atrocities committed by Israeli occupying forces in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, particularly in Gaza. The indiscriminate violence has claimed thousands of innocent Palestinian lives, including women, children, medical personnel, journalists and humanitarian workers, marking yet another dark chapter in Israel's brutal occupation.

In the latest incidence of brutality, Israel has mercilessly killed 15 Palestinian emergency and civil defense workers during direct gunfire. All the audio and video evidence has substantiated Israel's indiscriminate use of force against unarmed innocent Palestinian civilians. Pakistan demand that the international community should take immediate notice of this barbarity and stop this blatant violation of international law and charter of the United Nations.

Pakistan reaffirms full support to the upcoming high-level international conference for the peaceful settlement of Question of Palestine and the implementation of two-state solution. We commend France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for co-chairing the preparatory consultations for the June 2025 Conference.

We sincerely hope that the June Conference will rise to the occasion and restore hope in peace and justice through meaningful action. We believe that in the lead-up to the Conference: The ceasefire must be fully implemented; the blockade on Gaza must be lifted; humanitarian access must be guaranteed; civilians and humanitarian personnel must be protected. Any attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians or annex their land must be unequivocally rejected and effectively prevented.

The human rights violations in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) continue unabated. The Indian authorities once again decided to deny permission to hold Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the historic Jama Masjid and Eidgah in Srinagar. The worshippers were also barred from gathering at the Jama Masjid during the holy night of Laila-tul-Qadr. The Indian authorities are in the habit of enforcing similar curbs in Srinagar for past several years.

Restraining the ordinary people from congregating on special religious occasions poses serious challenges to the religious freedom of Muslims in IIOJK. The Kashmiri people's rights to freely practice their religion and of peaceful Assembly must be respected.

I thank you!

*

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): The Prime Minister has announced that Pakistan will be sending a delegation to the United States on the matter of tariffs, what will be the composition of this delegation and when will this be sent? if you can share more details

With regards to the JCC with Afghanistan, there are reports that it will be held in the coming week, if you can share more details?

Spokesperson: On the first question on Afghanistan, we have been reiterating that it remains an important bilateral relationship for Pakistan, we are neighbors bound by layers of history, culture, language. We have been trying to improve relations but the major roadblock, of course, remains the security situation and the sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists. Recently, Special Representative's visit to Kabul was very successful and certain understandings have been reached in terms of the follow up action. About the JCC, we will share information once more concrete things are available.

On the second question of tariff, of course it is an important issue. We are following it and have seen the statement released by the US government yesterday regarding suspending tariffs on most of the countries. This issue is under active consideration, and we will keep you informed of any further developments.

(Raziq Mehmood Bhatti, Daily Kashmir Express): A citizen of Azad Kashmir was martyred by a terrorist, and it is being alleged that the terrorist belongs to India. If so, then why has his identity not been disclosed yet? Secondly, India again violated LOC and attacked people on Eid, what steps have been taken regarding this issue?

Spokesperson: I need to gather information regarding your first question. I'll get back to you on that. Regarding your second question, the government of Pakistan as policy tries to maintain peace and stability in the region. However, I would refer you to the ISPR for the specific information you have asked.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): First, tariffs were announced by the US and later paused for 90 days but there was no statement from the Foreign Office. What is the reason? Secondly, America has cancelled some scholarships, and it is being said that visas of some Pakistani students are also being cancelled. Can you share some details on this?

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): A high-level delegation of the US visited Pakistan, and a high-level delegation of Pakistan will be visiting America soon. What are the expectations of Pakistan especially with regards to tariffs, as Pakistan is also being affected directly. Is there any hope for Pakistan with regards to tariff situation?

(Asghar Ali Mubarak, The Daily Mail International): My question is also related to tariffs, China is being targeted particularly when it comes to the tariffs imposed by the US. Since China is a partner of Pakistan and in terms of CPEC and every other area where Pakistan is benefitting from China, it is being targeted in that every way possible whether it is the situation of Balochistan, Pakistan or Afghanistan. Do you think that all this is being done internationally to sabotage Pakistan's game changer project?

(Ijaz Ali Sagar, Daily Shaheed Islamabad): Sir, will Pakistani delegation visit America despite pause in tariffs?

Spokesperson: Sir regarding your question on China, we have close fraternal ties with China. We have noted the recent developments with regards to US tariffs and given the interconnected nature of global trade, such measures can have far reaching effects, particularly on developing countries. We hope for a swift and mutually beneficial resolution of this issue.

About the question of tariffs on Pakistan, we are following the developments. Prime Minister has constituted a Steering Committee and a Working Group to examine fresh tariffs and formulate a response. Ministry of Commerce may be consulted in this regard for further details.

On scholarship exchange programs, the recent discontinuation of global undergraduate exchange program between Pakistan and the United States marked the end of 15-year initiative that played a pivotal role in academic and cultural enrichment of 1000s of Pakistani students. We believe that student exchange programs play an important role in strengthening bilateral relations by focusing on education, scientific and technological collaboration, and, more importantly, people to people contacts. The participants of these programs develop cross cultural communication skills, adaptability and a global perspective on important issues, qualities that are indispensable in a modern in the modern interconnected world. About the visa cancelations, we are seeking details from our missions in the US and will respond accordingly. Our missions will continue to provide full support and assistance to the affected Pakistani students, if any, by engaging with the relevant UN agencies.

(Saima Shabbir, Arab News): My question is regarding Saudi Arabia as there are media reports that Saudi Arabia has put a ban on Pakistan, specifically for business, Umrah and and some personal visit to Saudi Arabia. Is that true? Has it been communicated officially by the Saudi government to Pakistani government?

Spokesperson: I have seen the news report regarding suspension of visa services for 14 countries for a certain period of time. We are gathering facts at the moment, and to get official response. We will get back to you on this.

(Nimra Sohail, PTV News): Sir, ahead of the two-day visit of Indian Home Minister, Amit Shah, to IIOJK, there are intense restrictions in place. What do you have to say about this?

Spokesperson: In the wake of these restrictions, the claims of normalcy in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir rings hollow. In any case, these restrictive measures should not hamper the day-to-day life in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): A meeting was held in Kabul earlier this week, which demanded of the United Nations to help in the repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. Sufficient damage has already been caused to mutual trust between the two countries. So, is it not advisable to develop trust with Afghanistan before undertaking a rigorous repatriation process and to make efforts with Afghanistan, to involve UNHCR and the international community within the process?

I have heard from an official at the Afghan Commissionerate that the Foreign Office and the security establishment is now seeking opinion of these people about those Afghans who have properties and investment in Pakistan. Because most of the POR card holders have been living in Pakistan over the past 45 years, so has process started? Secondly, I still remember the statement of the Interior Ministry on March 7, when they announced the second phase of repatriation of illegal foreigners. I believe that you should be polite with the refugees as there are reports of people complaining about. For example, a day before yesterday, I received a phone call from refugees who I knew since long and he was going back to Afghanistan and he wanted to meet his relatives in Rawalpindi and he was stopped at a check post near the airport society. I also requested the police but they didn't let him go although he was released later on after taking Rs. 10,000/-. Foreign affairs are involved in this and I think if we continue like this, I fear that we will lose over 40 years of goodwill earned in hosting refugees.

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): Sir, KPK government announced that they do not agree with the Federal Government's policy of repatriation of illegal Afghan refugees, and that they are willing to host these Afghan refugees. Was KP government not taken into confidence with regards to this repatriation policy? Second, regarding discussions with Afghanistan, Chief Minister KPK, Ali Amin Gandapur recently said in a statement that we have sent TORs to the Foreign Office on which we want to engage with Afghanistan as a province. So, can you confirm if Foreign Office has received those TORs from the province?

Spokesperson: Sir, let me just restate our policy. Pakistan has always stood with our Afghan friends, brothers and sisters, in their difficulties, and has generously hosted generation of Afghans for over four decades. The illegal foreign repatriation plan is consistent with Pakistan's obligation under international law and its domestic legal framework. The right to secure and regulate our borders is a sovereign right and an internationally recognized practice, which is by no means unique to Pakistan. We wish to reiterate that IFRP is neither an indiscriminate nor an arbitrary measure. It applies to all foreigners, irrespective of their nationality or country of origin, residing in Pakistan in violation of our domestic laws. The government has implemented IFRP in a phased systematic manner and we have taken various institutional and policy measures to ensure the effective and smooth repatriation of illegal foreigners with dignity. We are engaged with relevant UN bodies for the protection of people in vulnerable situations, and our legal safeguards and remedies remain functional and effective to address any complaints. We are ensuring IFRPs alignment with international human rights and humanitarian norms and in coordination with all relevant partners.

About Tahir Saab's question, I take careful note of what you have emphasized. What I can say is that the government instructions are very clear that whole situation has to be dealt humanely and ensuring the dignity of the illegal foreigners which are being repatriated. And for any isolated incidents, the government will inquire into them and see what can be done to address these issues. With regards to question of goodwill, we have emphasized that there is hardly any example of a country which has been more generous to refugees than Pakistan. But securing our border and ensuring who comes into our country and who is not allowed to into our country remains Pakistan's sovereign right. And Afghan friends will always be welcome through a proper visa regime to visit Pakistan on business, visit or education visa. Afghanistan remains a very important neighbor of Pakistan. And as I have been emphasizing this is a multi-layered and decades old relationship. In terms of the broader question of bilateral relations, it remains a very important priority. But of course, security situation, threat of terrorism, sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists, are some of the roadblocks for the larger wholesome development of political and economic relationship.

On your question related to KPK, I can just emphasize that the regulation of border and foreign policy remains the domain of the federal government and within the federal government, the Foreign Ministry, Interior Ministry and all ministries have a role to Play.

About process, Tahir Saab this is of course a major policy initiative. The policies in these matters remain under review. I don't have the specifics on this, but I'll check on that. Regarding TORs also, I'll have to check.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Reports suggest that you have recently issued a press release regarding PM's visit to Belarus and media reports suggest PMLN Supremo Nawaz Sharif may also accompany Prime Minister's Belarus visit first.

Second, my question regarding the recently the big development, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Zahabi has recently met Governor Sindh Kamran Tasori, and he announced that UAE has lifted visa ban on Pakistanis and decided to issue a visa up to five years. Can you confirm and share more details regarding this. Thank you.

Spokesperson: On first question, the Prime Minister has left today. About former Prime Minister, Mr. Mohammad Nawaz Sharif being part of the visit, I'll check and get back to you.

About the second question regarding Pakistanis traveling to UAE, this question has been raised many times, and I have been emphasizing that, of course, there is a huge Pakistani diaspora in UAE, which has lived there for decades and contributed to the development of UAE and also promotion of relations between our two countries. As far as our government was concerned, there was no official ban on visa for Pakistanis. The category under which visa is to be issued, or how it is to be issued, is a sovereign right of the other country. So, I also gave the example that our flights going to Dubai, Abu Dhabi have always been full. There was no disruption in the people-to-people contacts and Pakistanis traveling there. On the new information, I will check from the Middle East desk, and will get back to you on the specifics.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Many discussions were held at different forums on Bagram Airbase. It was also stated that these are speculations but now different reports are emerging that American Embassy will be operating in Afghanistan, its diplomats are present there and its funding has been increased. What is the veracity of these reports? Your comments please.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): Pakistan gave airbases to the US in the past to for taking action inside Afghanistan. Does Pakistan have any objections to Bagram Airbase?

Spokesperson: About the functioning of the US Embassy or otherwise in Kabul, this is a bilateral matter between the governments of Afghanistan and United States. We don't have any comment.

About discussions on the US reestablishing a base in Bagram or not, so far, I would characterize it as media speculation, and again, primarily it's a matter between the two countries, but we have not seen any official comment or official statement on this account.

(Khalid Mahmood, Express News): Shafqat Sahab, there are reports that two Congressmen are visiting Pakistan on 13th April in which discussions will be held on human rights and political situation in Pakistan and they will also visit Adiyala Jail. Are all these engagements in the schedule of the visit?

Spokesperson: Parliamentary Cooperation is always an important component of bilateral relations between two countries. Pakistan-US, as I have been explaining, have strong, robust, multi-dimensional cooperation. Parliamentary cooperation is an important layer of this friendly relationship. A congressional delegation is coming. The specifics of the program, I will share with you on due course.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): I will ask three questions. Tahawarr Rana's extradition has been approved and he is currently enroute from the US to India. He is dual national of Pakistan origin, and if reports are to be believed, he is, quote, unquote, a financier of the 26/11 attacks. What is Pakistan's comment on that?

Secondly, if reports are to be believed, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit London from the 11th of April. Can you shed more light on the agenda of his visit?
And a prisoner was transferred from the UK's prison to Pakistan in March under the 2008 bilateral prison exchange agreement. He was shifted from Adilaya to Peshawar, where he was supposed to complete 24 years of his imprisonment. But he was seen roaming around and attending weddings. The UK has apparently written to the Foreign Office. Can you shed more light on that? And what is Pakistan doing to make sure that such laws are not violated? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Starting from the third question, about the question of prisoner, I will have to check the details but what I understand, you have referred about news of a specific prisoner being sent in March, I am not privy to those, but I will check. I can give you a broad context of Pakistan-UK relations and within that consular cooperation is a very important component and there are various agreements governing the consular relations between the two countries. Overall, as a Foreign Ministry, we are satisfied, all arrangements are working satisfactorily. But this particular incident, I will check. About London visit also, I will get back to you.

On the Tahawaar Rana issue, we have conveyed our position regarding his Canadian nationality. As far as our record indicates, he did not even apply for renewal for his Pakistani origin documents for the last two decades. I reiterate that position. We will give further updates in due course.

(Adnan Amir, Nikki Asia): So recently, Pakistan appointed Mr. Chang bank Yao as a strategic advisor for Pakistan Crypto Council and Mr. Yao has a proven criminal track record in US, and he was convicted for money laundering there. So some quarters are criticizing this move on the grounds that this appointment might impact Pakistan's case with FATF. So, your comments on that? Thank you.

Spokesperson: This matter, I will refer you to Ministry of Finance and Ministry of IT.

(Afzal Reza, IRNA): This is Raza from Iranian official news agency, my question is regarding the latest status of Iran nuclear deal and US threats against Iran. How does Pakistan review these developments? You know, day after tomorrow, the indirect talks between Iran and the United States are scheduled to be held in Amman. It was actually the US that illegally and unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA. Now Mr. Trump, while pretending to support the talks, is threatening Iran with bombing and military attack. So, Mr. Ambassador, are Islamabad and Tehran in contact on these developments? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Iran is a very important neighbor, a close friend of Pakistan. Our dialogue continues at multiple levels. We have intense interaction across multiple channels, and it is a very important relationship for both countries. On the specifics of JCPOA, what I can say is that we supported JCPOA, which demonstrated a good example of negotiated settlement of a complex issue through dialogue and diplomacy. We will continue to support initiatives by relevant parties that aim to resolve contentious issues through constructive negotiations.

(Syed Asif Ali, The News): In the context of Pakistan - US relations, Pakistan always advocated for no aid but trade. Now America has closed many aid programs all over the world, is it not a big opportunity to strive to implement this point of view. Also, Pakistan is an importer of American weaponry and we can export many products to the US. What are Pakistan's preparations on this?

Spokesperson: Overall, I agree with your assessment that we emphasize the importance of bilateral trade in ensuring more development in the developing countries. It is a very important vehicle for common prosperity. Trade always benefits both parties, and it the US is our biggest export destination.

About the question of tariffs, as I explained to you, the matter remains under high level attention within the government, and we continue to assess and monitor the situation, and we will share as more information is relevant and available.

(Abdullah Mohmand, Dawn News): There are reports that Beijing has again raised concern over the safety of their citizen in Balochistan who are working on different projects. There are reports that Beijing has halted work on some of the projects in Pakistan and they are demanding safety of their citizens from Islamabad, and there are reports that some new initiative will be taken for the safety of the Chinese citizens by Beijing. So, what is your take on this?

Spokesperson: China is our strategic partner, one of our closest friends, a close neighbor, and its economic investment in Pakistan is very crucial for us, and we welcome it. And overall, the safety of our Chinese friends is government of Pakistan's responsibility and it is a trust we carry with utmost seriousness, and we are committed to ensure safety and security of our Chinese friends who are working for development of Pakistan within our country. So that is our overall policy. I need to see. I have not seen the specifics of the particular incident you are mentioning. I will have to check this.

(Rizwan Abbasi, ABN News): Hundreds of Pakistanis were rescued in Myanmar who became victim of human trafficking. When those citizens will be brought back to Pakistan and according to your information, how many of them are still stuck in camps?

Spokesperson: We are in contact with both the Government of Myanmar and Government of Thailand on this issue and our embassies in both countries and their embassies here, also, we have been coordinating. It is an ongoing issue, and it is more complex, but our embassies, and our government is working keenly on this, and we'll keep sharing more information with you as it becomes available. We are dealing with as a matter of priority.

(Allah Noor Wazir, Mashriq TV): Which country carried out Katlang Drone Attack? Was it Pakistan or another country? In the past, America was accused of carrying out drone strikes especially in Waziristan. What are updates on Katlang Drone Attack?

Spokesperson: I will refer to Ministry of Interior and ISPR on this.

(Sardar Amir Hussain, Daily Madaar): What is Pakistan's policy on Gaza and what is the death toll of Palestinians martyred in Gaza? How many women, children and old people were martyred and what is Pakistan doing in this regard?

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Pakistan has already sent a number of consignments; I think 11 or 12 in aid for the people of Gaza. Are we expecting more to be sent there? If so, can you share more details on that, thank you.

Spokesperson: This is an important question. I also mentioned in opening statement about it. The total number of Palestinians martyred, according to statistics released by Palestinian Health Ministry, which we believe is credible, is more than 50,000 and we strongly condemn these barbaric actions. If this is not genocide then I do not know what is.

Regarding Anas's question, we have been sending relief supplies, we will look for opportunity to send more supplies but right now, the biggest problem is that humanitarian assistance is not being allowed into Gaza. The indiscriminate killing of Palestinians, starving them, and even not allowing humanitarian assistance to go into Gaza, is completely condemnable and unacceptable.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Waqf Ammendment Bill has been introduced in Indian Parliament on which Indian Muslims Organizations and Indian Muslims have protested. They think this bill is like occupying their properties.

Secondly, regarding Palestine situation, one of the possible solutions to this conflict is two-state solution. But Israel rejects this proposal altogether and rather wants to create greater Israel, Palestinians also reject it. Pakistan does advocate for two-state solution but don't you think it is like accepting Israel's existence?

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): One of the clips of leader of TLP Saad Rizvi is viral in which he claimed that one of the camps of Labbaik Foundation was bombarded and some members were martyred. Do you confirm this claim?

Spokesperson: On your last question, I have not seen this statement. I will have to see before I can respond to that. About Waqf Amendment Act, we strongly believe it is an infringement over the religious and economic rights of Indian Muslims. Particularly the act usurps the property rights of Muslim community, and could potentially dispossess them of a number of mosques, shrines and other holy places. It will certainly undermine the Muslim's management in control of their properties endowed for different religious and charitable purposes. The passage of this discriminatory legislation is also reflective of the growing majoritarianism in India. There are serious apprehensions that it will contribute to further marginalization of Indian Muslims.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): Sir, please tell us if there is a visit of Foreign Secretary to Bangladesh and will there be a visit of Foreign Minister to Bangladesh after that?

Secondly, Sadiq Khan stated that if Afghan Taliban did not cooperate with us on TTP issue then we will cancel all our deals with Afghan Taliban and we will not cooperate with them. Is this a policy shift on Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: On your second question, I have not seen this statement.

About Bangladesh, we want friendly, cooperative relations. It is an important relationship for us, and the discussions are going on between the two governments on number of ideas for cooperation. But we will share the details of the visit whenever it is mature.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): Telephonic conversation was held between Pakistani and American Foreign Minister. Pakistani Foreign Office stated in its press release that the Pakistani Foreign Minister stressed the American Secretary of State, he stressed the need to resolving the issue regarding American weapons in Afghanistan. So, in what context this issue was raised because when question is asked on American ammunition in Afghanistan you always state that it is an issue between the two sovereign countries. But in our statement, when the two Foreign Ministers spoke, it was also mentioned. Does this mean Pakistan raised this issue to the US again and they responded?

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Sir, in 2021, Pakistan evacuated many American citizens out of Afghanistan and 7 to 8 hundred thousand Afghans were in Pakistan. That was a big issue but the issue which is hurting Pakistan is American weapons left in Afghanistan. If Pakistan is receiving calls frequently from America, there is a matter which is being kept hidden. If they are asking for help on this matter, then they cannot do anything without Pakistan's help. All actions will be taken through Pakistan. Is Pakistan ready to help them? If so, is there a plan on the table on how to get back American weaponry from Afghanistan, although the Afghan Taliban will decline this request. If still such a deal takes place, is Pakistan ready for retrieval of American weapons.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): It is being observed that America is engaging directly with Afghanistan. Before that, Pakistan was involved in such meetings. Your comments please.

Spokesperson: Regarding first question, the fact of the matter is that the leftover weapons are being used in attacks against our security forces within Pakistani territory, this we have always emphasized. We have also emphasized in the past the deleterious consequences of these weapons which have been left behind. And this was also highlighted in the telephonic conversation between the two ministers.

About Naveed Saab's question, it is too speculative for me at this point in time. I just cannot comment specifically on that.

Khawaja Saab on your specific question about Afghanistan again, colleagues like Tahir Saab and other friends who follow Afghanistan very closely, this we have been repeatedly saying as a matter of policy. Afghanistan is a sovereign country. The kind of relations it wants to have with any country of the world, we respect its choice. So, if the US and Afghanistan want to build a relationship, they want to have friendly relations, there is nothing for us to comment on that. They can have the kind of relations the two countries want.

(Islamuddin, Anadolu Agency): The US has again sanctioned some firms targeting missile production in Pakistan. What is your comment on it?

Secondly, Pakistan hosted Minerals Investment Forum during last two days. Many ministers and officials from other countries participated in that forum. What was the tangible outcome of that event? Thank you.

Spokesperson: About this mineral's forum, I would refer you to Ministry of Petroleum and SIFC on specifics of this question.

About the first question, we reiterate that Pakistan's strategic programme is fully indigenized, in compliance of international and domestic laws as well as to our national obligations arising thereof.

We have seen the US Department of Justice Press Release on the subject. We cannot comment on the specific case without having details.

In the past, similar instances of arrest of individuals or denial of technology have taken place without any evidence whatsoever. We believe such actions are detrimental to the credibility of global non-proliferation efforts and obstruct the legitimate acquisition of technology for socio-economic development.

Thank you very much.