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Transcript of the Weekly Press Briefing by the Spokesperson, Thursday July 24, 2025

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is on an official visit to the United States to attend the high-level signature events of Pakistan's UN Security Council (UNSC) Presidency in New York, as well as for certain engagements in Washington.

In New York, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, participated in the General Debate of the Ministerial Segment of the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on 21 July 2025. In his national statement, the DPM/FM reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; outlined key policy measures driving inclusive growth, climate resilience, and economic reform; and highlighted transformative initiatives taken by Pakistan in achieving SDGs. The DPM/FM called for a just & inclusive international financial architecture that supports the sustainable goals of developing countries and further reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to global cooperation for a more equitable and resilient future.

On the sidelines of the High-Level Political Forum, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, met the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, and the President of the UN General Assembly, Philémon Yang, at the UNHQ. The DPM/FM reiterated Pakistan's firm support for multilateralism and the UN's central role in conflict resolution, sustainable development, and the protection of fundamental rights. He highlighted Pakistan's initiatives during the Presidency of the UN Security Council, particularly its focus on multilateralism & UN-OIC cooperation. He also raised key issues of national & regional concern, including the Jammu & Kashmir dispute and the violations of the Indus Waters Treaty. He reaffirmed Pakistan's support for Palestinian statehood, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and opposed Israel's illegal annexation plans in the West Bank.

As part of Pakistan's Security Council signature events, the DPM/FM chaired a high-level Open Debate on "Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes" on 22 July 2025. During his remarks, the DPM/FM underscored that importance of multilateralism; highlighted selective application of international law, from Gaza to Jammu & Kashmir, as untenable; pointed out the unilateral actions which are undermining international agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT); and urged respect for such commitments to preserve peace and cooperation.

On the same day, the UN Security Council also unanimously adopted, under Pakistan's Presidency, Resolution 2788, on "Strengthening Mechanisms for the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes" in a UNSC session presided by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The resolution inter-alia urges greater use of UN Charter Chapter-VI tools including negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, and resort to regional and sub-regional organizations, as well as good offices of the Secretary General, and calls for inclusive diplomacy.

In addition, the DPM/FM presided over the Quarterly Open Debate of the Security Council on the "Situation in the Middle East including the Palestinian Question" on 23 July 2025.Delivering Pakistan's national statement, the DPM/FM condemned systematic targeting of hospitals, schools, UN facilities, aid convoys and refugee camps as deliberate acts of collective punishment, in flagrant violation of International Humanitarian Law, numerous Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, as well as binding provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Characterizing the Palestinian question a litmus test for the credibility of the United Nations, the DPM/FM urged the Security Council to take action for immediate ceasefire, unimpeded aid access, end to occupation & forced displacement, renewed and reinforced international support to UNRWA, implementation of the Arab and OIC-led reconstruction plan for Gaza, and revival of the 2-state solution.

The DPM/FM will also chair a high-level briefing of the UN Security Council today in New York that focusses on enhancing cooperation between the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

On the sidelines, the DPM/FM met the Special Envoy for Global Affairs of the Austrian Chancellor, Peter Launsky; the UK Minister for Africa, the UN, Commonwealth, and Multilateral Affairs, Lord Collins of Highbury; Thailand's Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa; and Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning, Faisal Al-Ibrahim.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, also engaged with leading investment, banking and IT professionals in New York.

Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister, along with the Foreign Ministers of Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, held a trilateral meeting on 17 July 2025 in Kabul ahead of the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Joint Feasibility Study for Uzbek-Afghan-Pak (UAP) Railway project.

The meeting reaffirmed ties and a shared commitment to peace, connectivity, trade, and regional development. The three sides emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation to unlock the region's economic potential and ensure long-term prosperity for their peoples.

On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, the DPM/FM met with Prime Minister of Afghanistan, Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund; and the Acting Interior Minister of Afghanistan, Sirajuddin Haqqani.

The 10th Political Dialogue between the European Union (EU) and Pakistan took place on 17 July 2025 in Brussels. The Pakistan delegation was led by the Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Amna Baloch, and the EU delegation was headed by Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog.

The Dialogue covered key issues of the EU-Pakistan bilateral cooperation, as well as regional and international issues, including the situation in Gaza and Ukraine and the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Both sides agreed to deepen dialogue and discussions on security matters, including counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics. The EU and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) signed in 2019 and further reiterated their resolve to continue close engagement under the GSP+ framework.

The 7th Round of the Pakistan-United Kingdom Dialogue on Arms Control, Non-Proliferation, and Disarmament was held on 16 July 2025 in London. Additional Foreign Secretary for Arms Control, Disarmament, and International Security (ACDIS) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Islamabad, Ambassador Tahir Andrabi, and Director of Defence and International Security at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Ambassador Stephen Lillie CMG, led the respective delegations.

The two sides engaged in comprehensive discussions on a wide array of issues, including international and regional security, strategic stability, arms control, disarmament, non-proliferation, and peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent Israeli attacks against Syrian Arab Republic in contravention of international law and principles of the UN Charter. These unprovoked attacks mark a dangerous escalatory path being pursued by Israel in the region with impunity.

Pakistan expresses its full support for the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity of Syria, and calls on the international community to prevent Israel from its acts of aggression that continue to undermine the peace and stability in the entire region.

Pakistan stands in full solidarity with the brotherly people of Syria and reaffirms its strong support for lasting peace and stability in the country and in the region.

Pakistan condemns the continued blatant acts of aggression by Israeli forces in the Gaza and Palestine, leading to deaths of dozens of innocent civilians, including elderly, women and children.

We condemn Israel's constant hampering of adequate and safe access to food, water and basic necessities to the people of Gaza and Palestine. As per the United Nations agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, 1 in 10 children in Gaza is malnourished due to Israel's siege of the enclave, leading to an anthropogenic starvation crisis.

Pakistan reiterates its call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire; an end to Israel's unabated massacre of the Palestinian people; lifting of the inhumane siege; and expeditious delivery of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people.

We firmly believe that the only just solution to the Palestinian question is the creation of an independent, viable, sovereign and contiguous Palestinian State along the pre-June 1967 borders with Al-Quds-Al-Sharif as its capital.

I Thank you!
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(Mateen Haider, GTV News): The US State Department has confirmed that DPM/FM, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, will be having a meeting with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. Since they have confirmed, would you like to share details like what key issues are going to be discussed between Secretary of State, Rubio and DPM/FM? Are the issues like India-Pakistan tension, Iranian issue, Afghanistan, terrorism, likely to be discussed? Please share. Secondly, has the scheduled visit of the Iranian president to Pakistan on 26th been postponed? Would you confirm and share new details?

Spokesperson: I will start with the second question. I will not agree with your characterization and use of the word "postpone". Iran is a very close friend, neighbor and a brotherly country. High level visits are an important feature of this robust partnership and friendship. Discussions on the dates of the visit of the Iranian president are currently ongoing, and we will announce the details as soon as they are finalized. The date of 26th July was not settled, but media speculation perhaps led to creation of certain reality. Discussions between the two sides are underway, we will keep you posted.

About the first question, I can confirm that the meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, and the entire range of issues on the bilateral agenda, as well as important regional and global issues including the situation in the Middle East, and Iran will be discussed. Exchange of views will also take place on the Pakistan-India question, for which we remain grateful for the role played by the US in de-escalation of tensions leading to ceasefire.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): You said that the visit was not confirmed. Interior Minister in his call with his counterpart, afterwards said that Iranian President will be visiting on the 26th, were they misleading? Pakistan has sent 26 aid consignments to Gaza via Amman in Jordan and El Arish in Egypt, are we planning to send more aid?

Spokesperson: Sir, I can confirm that the visit is under discussion by the two sides. As soon as the dates are finalized, we will share the details with you. About the second question, Pakistan remains open to helping our brothers and sisters in Gaza in every way possible. Humanitarian assistance, of course, is a very important aspect. However, the impediments created by Israel, in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, are not allowing aid to enter Gaza. We will continue to remain in touch with the UN relief agencies and the neighboring countries and as soon as the situation permits, we remain committed to sending more assistance.

(Adnan Aamir, Nikkei Asia): During this Senate Standing Committee on Railways, the Committee Chairman said that the Pakistani Ambassador in Austria has told the Committee members that an Austrian company is interested in funding and constructing part of main line, one project of CPEC. Can you share more details of that? Secondly, what's the position of government of Pakistan on Thailand Air Force bombing military targets in Cambodia?

Spokesperson: About the first question, there are several commercial projects under discussion in the country. We try to attract investment in Pakistan. However, for details pertaining to your query, I will have to check and get back. We are following the developments pertaining to Thailand and Cambodia. Our embassies are sending us reports and we are assessing the situation. At this point in time, we emphasize restraint, and ceasefire and the peaceful settlement of all disputes.

(Shahzad Hassan Mirza, Daily Media): The Spokesperson of the USA, Tammy Bruce, stated in response to a question that Pakistani delegation is visiting US to discuss IWT and Kashmir. I wanted to know if India also being engaged in that meeting.

Spokesperson: I cannot comment on the US diplomatic engagements with other countries, but what I can confirm to you is that the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet Secretary Rubio, details of which I already shared earlier.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Sir, India is constantly avoiding talks and if it keeps doing so what could be done by America in this regard? President Trump is already taking credit for ceasefire between the two countries and then he also talked about resolving the Kashmir issue. As the DPM/FM is on a visit to America, what are the expectations of Pakistan regarding India's tilt towards talks?

Spokesperson: Sir, our consistent position is that the issues have to be resolved through diplomacy and peaceful means, and we remain committed to it. We engage with all countries in good faith, and we continue to invite India to come to the negotiating table and move towards a peaceful settlement of disputes. But the key question is for India to decide what kind of policy it wants to adopt. As far as Pakistan is concerned, our position is very clear. We have, multiple times, acknowledged and thanked the US intervention and the role it played in the de-escalation of the recent crisis. But again, it is for India to decide the route it wants to take, the policy it wants to adopt. Diplomatic engagement is not a favor extended by one country to another it is in the common interest of both countries and of regional stability and global peace.

(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News): Sir, US President has for the 27th time, day before yesterday, reiterated that it is he, who arranged ceasefire between Pakistan and India on May 10 and very recently, he also referred to the shooting down of five planes. And the day before yesterday's briefing, he moved ahead and claimed that nuclear clash was about to break out between the two countries. I wish to have your comments. Secondly, would you care to do a psycho analysis of Indian leadership, which is declining this claim of the US President?

Spokesperson: The facts pertaining to how this crisis unfolded, how it was managed, what happened during those four days, and what led to the de-escalation, are well known. We have repeatedly acknowledged the role played by important friendly countries, including particularly the United States, in the de-escalation. I cannot comment on how India continues to look at this situation, or how they want to characterize the situation. But the facts are there for everyone to see. I am not in a position to comment on why they are trying to ignore the reality or the facts.

(Tahir Khan, NNI): There was a report that an employee of Foreign Office was arrested on charge of visa fraud relating Afghanistan visas. Is there any truth to that? Because some people were produced in the court and sent on remand as well. Need your comments. Secondly, registered Afghan refugees' deadline i.e. 30th June 2025 has already passed and there is no decision on the extension yet. I have heard that the stakeholders have recommended to the government to extend but no decision yet. Can you tell us more about that? The extension of Afghan visa has been suspended. Do you have any information regarding this?

Spokesperson: We have our own internal procedures about incidents of malpractice or violation of E&D rules. We are in touch with the concerned authorities. As soon as we have sufficient information, we will get back to you. Secondly, with regards to POR cards, we are waiting for the directions from the government. The relevant lead departments in this case are Ministry of Interior and States and Frontier Regions, and we are in touch with them. As soon as any clarity or instructions from the government are received, we will be able to share with you. Lastly, about any ban on the extension of visas, I will have to check.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): The Interior Minister, Mr. Mohsin Naqvi has visited Afghanistan and had a detailed meeting with Afghan Interior Minister. I just wanted to confirm whether Pakistan has sought the handing over of Mr. Noor Wali Mahsood and other militants who are hiding over there? Secondly, would you mind sharing what was the mindset of Afghan side? Have they again reiterated playing their role, for mediation between Pakistan and TTP?

Spokesperson: Interior Minister, Mr. Mohsin Naqvi's visit was very important, and if you see it in a slightly broader context, the important watershed moment was the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister's visit of 19th April 2025. There is a steady positive momentum in interactions, and the quality of relations has significantly improved. Both sides are working on further solidifying the diplomatic gains, maintaining and accelerating the positive momentum. Interior Ministry deals with security and counterterrorism issues which are a very important part of the agenda between the two countries. We have repeatedly reiterated about what kind of relations we want with Afghanistan. However, one of the stumbling blocks is the sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists there. There is an active engagement going on between the two sides, and Afghan side is showing receptivity to our concerns communicated to them in this regard. The technical discussions are ongoing, I cannot go into the specifics of those, but what I can broadly in political terms say is that the visit was very successful. The two sides are positively engaged, and cooperation in security area has to be seen in the broader ambit of overall positivity and improvement of relations between the two brotherly neighboring countries.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Talon News): Sir, yet another important visit is on the cards i.e. Afghan Foreign Minister, Amir Muttaqi's visit. Can you share the details when he is coming to Pakistan? And are there chances and reports that Pakistan may announce recognition of Afghan Taliban Interim Government in Afghanistan during this visit. Can you confirm this?

Spokesperson: About the visit, I can confirm that discussions are ongoing between the two sides and the dates are being worked out. We are working on it. As soon as the dates are finalized, we will convey to you the second part at this point is speculative. I cannot comment on that.

(Allah Noor, Mashriq TV): During DPM/FM's visit to Afghanistan and then later on Interior Minister's visit to Afghanistan, was the matter of TTP sanctuaries located in Afghanistan, on which Pakistan has reservations, came under discussion with the Afghan Government?

Spokesperson: Yes, obviously when Interior Minister goes to a country, security issues are at the top of his agenda. And in the aforementioned visits, not only at the Interior Minister level, even at political level, the issue of sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists in Afghanistan was a key point. Discussions are ongoing on that, and this is part of the regular dialogue between the two countries.

(Islam Uddin, Anadolu Agency): Sir, I have two questions. Pakistan's Interior Minister in Bangladesh stated that we are issuing special passports to Rohingiya Community. When this process was started and how many such passports were issued?

Secondly, recently, Finance Minister visited America and dialogue is ongoing on trade agreement with the US. Has there been any progress on this aspect?

Spokesperson: About the second question, these are ongoing discussions. Both sides are pursuing it with lot of focus and energy about dealing with the question of trade and tariffs. But for specifics, I would again refer you to the Ministry of Commerce, which is the lead ministry in this.

About the Rohingya issue, I have not seen any report on that, but let me check with Ministry of Interior and High Commission. I will get back to you.

(Afzal Reza, IRNA): Sir my question is regarding the fresh nuclear talks between Iran and E3, the European troika, which will be held in Ankara tomorrow. I would like to know Pakistan's position on this matter; Islamabad is the strongest supporter of JCPOA.

Spokesperson: Our position remains consistent that this issue has to be resolved through diplomacy. We welcome the two sides coming together for dialogue, and we hope that the diplomatic route leads to results which are positive for our brotherly nation of Iran, and for regional stability. We continue to lend all our support to all diplomatic initiatives in this regard.

(Nasir Kzmi, Irani TV): As you said, that Iranian President is likely to visit Pakistan. Do we expect any major breakthrough during his visit regarding much awaited Iran Pakistan Gas Pipeline project?

Spokesperson: Pakistan - Iran have very close relations, not just in terms of the quality of relations, but in terms of how dense the relations are. They cover many aspects, people-to-people contacts, education, culture, political, diplomatic, security, economic, and trade relations. So there is a very rich agenda. And of course, this, what you are mentioning, will be part of the agenda for discussions between the two countries.

(Khalid Mehmood, Express News): Shafqat Sahab, there are intelligence reports that preparations are being made to conduct false flag operation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and India has posted 20th Battalion in IIOJK. In addition to this, India has posted its troops on western border with Pakistan. India also conducted three missile tests within a week and there are intelligence reports that India will attack Pakistan in September. Your comments, Sir.

Spokesperson: About any misadventure by India, our posture remains very robust. We are confident of our defense capabilities, and we hope India sees reason but if any attack, or aggression takes place against Pakistan, we are ready to defend ourselves. We are confident about our capabilities and we have demonstrated our capability in the recent Marka e Haq, which should be evident to everyone. The bottom line is, we remain ready, and we hope India should be able to see that bellicosity or hegemonic impulse is not going to lead it anywhere. So we hope that reason prevails and they can see that the route of diplomacy can lead to win-win situation between the two countries.

(Anas Malik, Capital TV): Last week, we saw the visit of Saddam Haftar, the commander of the Libyan forces. Previously, we have seen that Pakistan did not engage with the Libyan side. Is there a policy shift that is in process? If you can elaborate on the contours of the visit as well, thank you.

(Anwar Abbas, 24 News HD): Sir, I have two questions. Recently Khalifa Haftar was given protocol. It was written that Libyan Army Chief was on tour to Pakistan despite him representing a rebel faction backed by Saudi Arabia and UAE meanwhile Unity Forces, supported by Türkiye and the United Nations, control the Capital and the Government. Which factions does Pakistan support?

Secondly, why Khalifa Haftar was designated as head of Armed Forces despite him representing a rebel faction?

Spokesperson: Pakistan and Libya historically have enjoyed strong brotherly relations that encompass diplomatic and economic engagement with strong people-to-people contacts. The two countries have supported each other on important issues of mutual interest, and have been working to further promote bilateral relations. Pakistan officially recognizes the present government of National Unity and continues to maintain its Embassy in Tripoli. Furthermore, our current Ambassador presented his credentials in November 2023 to the Chairman of Libyan Presidential Council, Mohammed Al Menfi. The referred visit is part of our efforts to reach out to all stakeholders to promote the cause of peace and commitment towards constructive engagement for regional stability. The engagement was also aimed at promoting our intent to address the issue of illegal migration through African countries that had resulted in the loss of precious lives of Pakistani citizens.

(Syed Asif Ali, Din News): Pakistan and India have closed their airspace for each other till 24th August and 23rd August respectively. Is dialogue for peace between Pakistan and India taking place at any level?

Spokesperson: I can restate our position of Pakistan being open to dialogue and peaceful settlement of disputes.

(Abdullah Mohmand, Dawn News): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, yesterday, once again, reiterated that Pakistan is ready for meaningful dialogue with India, including Kashmir. But on the other side, India has claimed repeatedly that Pakistan's civilian government is helpless while dealing with India. So what is your take on this and is Foreign Minister meeting with Secretary Rubio and is Kashmir agenda on the table, or it will be limited only to conflict resolution or some out of the box solution is also on the table?

Spokesperson: About the second question, these are the perils of coming late. The question has been addressed. On the first question, I do not know how many excuses India wants to concoct, or you know what kind of arguments they want to contrive to stay away from dialogue. But our position remains consistent, which the Prime Minister so eloquently articulated. We remain open to dialogue to deal with all issues between Pakistan - India, which are impacting the bilateral relations, the core issue being Kashmir. And we hope that sense prevails, and India can join Pakistan for meaningful dialogue process.

(Azaz syed, Geo News): Sir American President, Mr. Donald Trump, had announced that he wanted to invite Pakistani and Indian Prime Minister to some lunch or dinner. Have they identified any restaurant or good place for this, and have they communicated anything regarding this?

Spokesperson: No.

(Noor Aimen, 365 News): Recent reports by Afghan Commerce Ministry show that trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan hit 1 billion during the first six months of this year. So how positive sign is this regarding the trade diplomacy between two countries?

(Anas Malik, Capital TV): Yesterday, there was the preferential trade agreement signed between Pakistan and Afghanistan for a year. Would you like to shed some light on that as well.

(Azaz syed, Geo News): Sir, in yesterday's trade agreement, PTA, both the countries have identified only four items from both sides. Why was it limited to four items only? I think there are more than two dozen items.

Spokesperson: Ma'am about the question of trade, between the neighboring countries, i.e. Pakistan and Afghanistan, this is a very important element of our bilateral relationship. There have been issues, or multiple issues, ranging from logistics, customs, procedure etc. impacting trade. So all of these are being addressed, and you can see the momentum it is generating. So, there is good progress on the trade.

About Anas Sahab and Azaz Sahab's question, the agreement signed yesterday is early harvest. So this will hopefully lead to more progress. But these four items that the two sides selected were in great demand on both sides, and this will have an immediate impact on the lives of the farmers. For example, potatoes from Pakistan are in great demand in Afghanistan. Similarly, Afghan fruits will directly help ordinary farmers. Overall, we remain optimistic about the direction and the trajectory of the bilateral economic relations. And we hope to see more progress.

(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News): Pakistan approached BRICS for its membership and Pakistan's request is being processed by the BRICS authorities. But I wish to know that what is Pakistan's vision now. Will Pakistan insist for it in the wake of President Trump's threat that whosoever in the BRICS speaks of another currency parallel to the dollar, he will slap tariffs on the countries of the members of the BRICS. Will Pakistan continue to insist on that? I am talking about BRICS membership.

Spokesperson: We continue to remain focused and serious about our membership of BRICS. It is not conditioned by another country's opinion or view of this organization. We look at it as an important vehicle for promoting multilateralism on the basis of sovereign equality. It is an important organization. We remain serious about pursuing its membership, and we will persist with our efforts to become its full member.

(Ruslan Bekiyazov, ITAR-TASS): How do you assess the outcomes of the SCO Foreign Ministers Summit Council in 15 July? And also, what are expectations of Pakistan with regards to the forthcoming head of the State Summit visit?

Spokesperson: SCO is a very important regional organization which promotes stability, common prosperity in the greater Eurasian region. We pursued its membership and since we have become a member we have been actively involved in the work of this important organization. We remain committed to its core objectives and the charter. Regarding the Foreign Ministers Meeting, we are satisfied with the outcome. And we look forward with a lot of keenness and positive expectation, the forthcoming Heads of State Meeting.
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