Transcript of the Press Briefing by the Spokesperson held on Friday, 1st August 2025
Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Assalam-o-Alaikum,
Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Pakistan categorically rejects the baseless assertions and provocative claims made by the Indian leaders during the Lok Sabha debate on the so-called "Operation Sindoor." These statements reflect a dangerous tendency to distort facts, justify aggression, and glorify conflict for domestic consumption.
The world knows that India attacked Pakistan without any verifiable evidence or a credible investigation into the Pahalgam Attack. During the intervening night of 6 and 7 May 2025, India's targeting of the alleged terrorist infrastructure resulted actually in the martyrdom of innocent men, women, and children. India failed to achieve any of its strategic objectives. On the other hand, Pakistan's resounding success in neutralising the Indian fighter jets and military targets is an indisputable fact.
Instead of misleading their compatriots, the Indian leaders would be well-advised to acknowledge the losses incurred by their armed forces and accept the active role played by the third parties in realising the ceasefire.
India did not avail itself of the immediate offer made by the Prime Minister of Pakistan for a transparent and independent probe into the Pahalgam Attack. Instead, it chose the path of belligerence and aggression. It acted as a judge, jury, and executioner at the same time. Against this backdrop, any claims regarding the so-called "Operation Mahadev" do not hold any significance for us. The account given by the Indian Home Minister is replete with fabrications, leading to serious questions about its credibility. Is it a mere coincidence that the alleged perpetrators of the Pahalgam Attack were killed at the start of the Lok Sabha debate?
We also reiterate our unequivocal rejection of the ceaseless Indian statements on establishing a "new normal" in bilateral relations. As we have already shown through our resolute actions in May 2025, we shall forcefully counter any future aggression. For us, the only "normal" in bilateral relations is respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and adherence to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter.
The Indian narrative of an alleged "nuclear blackmail" by Pakistan is a misleading and self-serving construct, and an attempt to veil its own escalatory impulses while shifting blame onto Pakistan. It is well known that Pakistan deterred India through its conventional capabilities, affirming that discipline and restraint remain its guiding principles.
We also wish to register our disapproval of the Indian leaders' misplaced assertions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty. India's decision to hold the Treaty in abeyance shows its blatant disregard for the sanctity of international treaties and strikes at a fundamental pillar of regional cooperation. Instead of taking pride in a unilateral and illegal move, India must immediately fulfill its Treaty obligations.
India's continued reliance on disinformation, jingoism, and chest-thumping risks destabilizing South Asia. However, as a responsible country, Pakistan remains committed to peace, regional stability, and a meaningful dialogue for resolution of all outstanding issues, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, was on an official visit to the United States from 20-28 July 2025, to attend high-level signature events of Pakistan's UN Security Council (UNSC) Presidency in New York, as well as for certain engagements in Washington.
On 24 July 2025, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, in addition, chaired a high-level briefing of the UN Security Council focusing on enhancing cooperation between the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
In his capacity as the President of the UNSC, the DPM/FM delivered Pakistan's statement at the Council's briefing. In his national statement, the DPM/FM described the OIC, the second largest inter-governmental organization after the UN, as a bridge - connecting the global with regional efforts and aligning political with humanitarian priorities. He said, the OIC's legitimacy derives not only from its vast and diverse membership, but from the principled clarity of its mandate — to uphold justice, protect human dignity, respect national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all Member States, and advance solidarity among nations.
The DPM/FM appreciated the OIC's role in championing the right of the Palestinian people to freedom and statehood, in advocating for the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to self-determination, and end to the prolonged illegal occupation by India, and in supporting peace efforts across Libya, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Sahel and beyond.
The UN Security Council also adopted a Presidential Statement (S/PRST/2025/5) during the same session under Pakistan's Presidency. The DPM/FM thanked all UNSC members for their constructive engagement in agreeing on a Presidential Statement (PRST) that will go a long way towards further strengthening the partnership and cooperation between the UN and the OIC.
On 25 July 2025, the DPM/FM travelled to Washington D.C. where he met the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the commitment to long-term Pakistan-US partnership, with renewed focus on economic, trade, investment, information technology, artificial intelligence and counter terrorism cooperation. They further exchanged views on key regional and global developments. Both sides reiterated the importance of close coordination at multilateral fora, including in the UN Security Council. Pakistan appreciated the United States' constructive role in facilitating the recent Pakistan-India ceasefire.
At the invitation of the Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan, and the Foreign Minister of France, Jean-Noel Barrot, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, represented Pakistan at the opening segment of the UN High-Level International Conference on "The Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution" co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, on 28 July 2025.
The DPM/FM met the Prime Minister of Palestine, Dr. Muhammad Mustafa; Foreign Minister of Egypt, Dr. Badr Abdelatty; Adviser for Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Md. Touhid Hossain; Foreign Minister of Kuwait, Abdullah Al-Yahya; and the Foreign Minister of Norway, Essen Barth Eide, on the sidelines of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, also held a productive meeting with American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) in New York on 27 July 2025. He appreciated APPAC's sustained efforts in diaspora empowerment, policy advocacy, and community leadership.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, engaged with the Pakistani American Community in New York on 27 July 2025.
On 27 July 2025, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, spoke with the Foreign Minister of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Both leaders discussed the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza impacting millions of Palestinian residents. The DPM/FM expressed the hope of achieving meaningful outcomes from the high-level international conference on Palestine and implementation of the two-state solution scheduled to be held in New York tomorrow. They also exchanged views about an exchange of a high-level visit to Pakistan in the near future.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, spoke with the Foreign Minister of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan on 28 July 2025. The two leaders strongly condemned Israel's ongoing atrocities in Gaza and expressed grave concern over the deepening humanitarian catastrophe, including starvation, forced displacement, and loss of innocent lives. Expressing unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their just cause, they hoped for meaningful outcomes from the international conference on the implementation of the two-state solution, held in New York.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, spoke to the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio on telephone on 28 July 2025. Following up on their productive meeting last Friday in Washington D.C., they discussed key bilateral matters, including tariffs, as well as regional & global issues of mutual interest.
Pakistan welcomes the successful conclusion of the special meeting hosted by Malaysia on the Cambodia-Thailand situation. We appreciate the spirit of dialogue and express hope for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy and regional cooperation.
The inaugural session of the Pakistan-Türkiye Joint Standing Committee (JSC) on Security, Defence and Intelligence was held on 24 July 2025 in Islamabad. The Turkish delegation was led by Director General for South Asia, Ambassador Cihad Erginay, and the Pakistan side was headed by Additional Secretary (Afghanistan & West Asia), Ambassador Syed Ali Asad Gillani.
Chinese Special Envoy on Afghan Affairs, Ambassador Yue Xiaoyong, called on Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Amna Baloch, on 26 July 2025 in Islamabad. The two sides exchanged views on regional cooperation and security challenges. They reaffirmed their commitment to work together to achieve the common goal of regional peace and development.
Additional Foreign Secretary, Hamid Asghar, represented Pakistan at the OIC Contact Group on Somalia, which was hosted by the State of Qatar in Doha on 28 July 2025. The Additional Foreign Secretary called on the Foreign Minister of Somalia, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, on the sidelines of the conference and discussed enhanced training in different fields, naval capacity building, direct shipping between Karachi and Mogadishu, defence collaboration, medical visas and provision of pharmaceuticals and health care products.
In a major milestone for space exploration and technological progress, Pakistan today successfully launched its Remote Sensing Satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre (XSLC) in China.
The satellite will provide high-resolution, round-the-clock imaging, significantly strengthening Pakistan's capabilities in urban planning, infrastructure development, disaster management and mitigation, agricultural monitoring, food security, environmental protection, deforestation tracking, climate change analysis, and water resource management.
President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, will pay a state visit to Pakistan on 2-3 August 2025, at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Dr. Pezeshkian will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Foreign Minister of Iran, H.E. Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, senior ministers, and other high-ranking officials.
During his stay, President Pezeshkian will meet with the President of Pakistan, H.E. Asif Ali Zardari, and hold delegation-level talks with Prime Minister of Pakistan, H.E. Shehbaz Sharif.
This marks Dr. Pezeshkian's first official visit to Pakistan as President of Iran. It may be recalled that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last visited Iran on 26 May 2025. The visit is expected to further strengthen the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran.
I Thank you!
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(Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, The News): My question pertains to the visit of Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar to the United States, from where he conducted all engagements related to Pakistan's Presidency of the UNSC for about a month time. I wish to know that how far Pakistan achieved the goals which it set for the period of its Presidency of the UNSC? Secondly, I could recall that President Trump, last month, talked of doing something for the resolution of Kashmir dispute. Did the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister take up the question of Kashmir when he spoke to the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio?
Spokesperson: The Foreign Ministry has been actively reporting on all engagements of the Deputy Prime minister/ Foreign Minister in New York, covering entire calendar of activities. The signature events relating to our Presidency of UNSC included an open debate on peaceful settlement of disputes through multilateralism; and a UNSC session on cooperation between the UN and OIC. These led to adoption of a presidential statement and adoption of a resolution by consensus by the UNSC on peaceful settlement of disputes. Other than that, there were a series of bilateral meetings, including with the United Nations Secretary General; President of General Assembly, several foreign ministers and interaction with the Pakistani diaspora. We issued a comprehensive press release on DPM/FM's meeting with the US Secretary of State. The meeting with Secretary Rubio encompassed not only the bilateral relations, but important security, regional and global issue. It was a very productive meeting. We are very satisfied with the outcomes of Deputy Prime Minister's visit to New York as well as Washington.
(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Two questions, since you said you've issued a comprehensive press release on Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's meeting, what it skipped mentioning was the mention of Iran, remediating Iran. Because and I quote from the US State Department's Statement, which stated: "Secretary Rubio expressed appreciation for Pakistan's continued willingness to play a constructive role in mediating conversations with Iran and its commitment to preserving regional stability." Has Pakistan offered any sort of mediation between US and Iran, as it stated in the US statement?
Number two, the Foreign Minister spoke at the Atlantic Council, and in a departure from what we have seen in the past, he spoke about an independent Kashmir. I wish to know what's Pakistan's stance on the matter of Kashmir. Do we seek an independent Kashmir, or is it Pakistan or India?
(Azaz Syed, Geo News): Sir, there were media reports while Deputy Prime Minister was in Washington he spoke to the Iranian Foreign Minister. So, these media reports originated from Irani press, would you mind confirming the news?
(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): As we know that Iranian President is visiting Pakistan, both countries have mutual agreements for example there is Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project, trade relations, security matters etc. And then there are sanctions of America on Iran. What are Pakistan's expectations from this visit?
Spokesperson: Anas about your second question, if you read the transcript, the DPM/FM has mentioned the UN Security Council and what flows from there. Pakistan has consistently maintained that the final status of Jammu and Kashmir is to be determined in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. There is no change in this policy. Against this backdrop, different insinuations about Deputy Prime Minister's remarks are baseless and uncalled for.
About the first question, Iran is our close friend and a brotherly neighboring country. We remain committed to making positive contribution to bring the tensions down and promote diplomatic solutions to problem. We are open to play that role, and we will continue to play that role.
With regards to telephone conversation between the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister and Foreign Minister of Iran, I just read the statement in opening remarks and we also released our official statement after the call.
About the Iranian President's visit, it is a state visit and covers delegation level talks and other engagements. The talks will cover the entire agenda of the bilateral relations. When a state visit takes place, that too, with a close friendly country, all issues of mutual interest are discussed in the spirit of cooperation, amity and friendship.
(Aamir Saeed Abbasi, Nukta News): I have two questions. First question is regarding the statement circulating in media that allegedly India is using the recent statement of Chief Minister of KPK, Gandapur, in FATF that Pakistan is supporting good Talibans in KPK. Can you confirm if the news is true that India is using this statement of CM Gandapur against Pakistan at FATF? Sir, it is being allegedly reported that Pakistan has issued directions to authorities to start the arrest of Afghans who are living illegally in Baluchistan particularly. Your comments.
Spokesperson: With regards to foreigners living illegally I will check with the Ministry of Interior for specific details and will try to share. But broadly, the policy framework remains consistent. Anyone found living illegally in Pakistan without proper documentation will be deported. That policy continues and there is no change in that.
About the FATF question, I will check for the specifics. About FATF there is a national authority for coordination of related issues, and the Foreign Office is working through the inter-ministerial mechanism. Secondly, the deliberations in the FATF are primarily confidential, but I will check through our concerned Division in the Ministry and with the national authority.
(Naveed Iqbal Siddiqui, Business Recorder): There's a perception that Donald Trump's favorable statements and actions can create some differences and strain our relations with our ironclad friend China. Your Comments?
Spokesperson: I will not agree with this perception. China is a very close friend and iron brother. We enjoy a strategic partnership spread over decades. It's a unique relationship between two friendly neighboring countries and has nothing to do with what kind of relations we pursue with other countries. Pakistan-China relations are based on the principles of international law and UN Charter. Our relations remain robust and two sides are working to sustain the positive momentum.
(Shaukat Piracha, AJJ TV): Even before the meeting between the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary Marco Rubio, your counterpart in the State Department, Tammy Bruce said that this meeting will discuss India Pakistan relationship. Secondly, President Trump, yesterday when he was talking about trade agreement with Pakistan, said that one day I believe Pakistan could export oil to India. My question is whether the United States or President Trump, particularly is persuading India and Pakistan or acing as a mediator? Is there any formal persuasion through diplomatic channels? Lastly, is your Excellency yourself, or this ministry, has some role in preparing talking points of President Trump, because whenever he speaks, he embarrasses Prime Minister Modi and appeases Rahul Gandhi. I just wanted to know if there was any relevance of our side to his talking points.
Spokesperson: Sir, with regards to your second question, we never try to embarrass anyone. We just articulate our position and pursue our country's national interests. We believe in pursuing diplomacy in good faith and that is a fundamental premise for our diplomatic interaction with other countries.
About the first question, our press release on the matter provides our readout on the meeting. He obviously highlighted our perspective on what is bedeviling peace and security in South Asia, our perspective on Kashmir issue, on relations with India and on what hinders the region's to live upto its potential in economic, trade and other sectors. We always give our perspective on that. Of course, we would welcome any role played by common friends in mitigating tensions, promoting good relations and stability in South Asia.
(Zahid Farooq Malik, Daily Metro Watch): From April till now, India has consistently tried to connect Pahalgam attack with Pakistan or Lashkar-e-Tayiba but it failed. Now according to new reports regarding Balochistan, Israel's alleged involvement in disrupting peace in Balochistan is also being reported. Now will Fitna e Israel also be accused alongside the previous BLA (Fitna e Hindustan)?
Secondly, since the statement of Mr. Trump regarding trade, the opposition including Maulana Fazal Ur Rehman or Raza Rabbani, is saying that we came to know about everything through Mr. Trump. Pakistan should also make announcements.
Spokesperson: Sir, about the second question, the Ministry of Commerce will make a comprehensive statement on the Pakistan US trade deal signed between the two sides. With regards to your first question, BLA is a terrorist organization, and we know how it is being funded. We are also aware of India's involvement. But I have not seen this specific report and I will check and get back.
(Zaheer, Samma TV): The report of UN sanction committee has stated that there is a nexus between Taliban and BLA. Need your stance on it and on the question of Mr. Zahid. Secondly, in the report of UN, India failed to link Pahalgam incident with the Lashkar e Tayiba. Need your stance on that please.
Spokesperson: Sir, I have not seen the report. But let me reiterate that we continue to explain that terrorist organization like BLA, TTP and similar other organizations are actually Indian proxies, working to destabilize Pakistan and create security challenges for Pakistan. All of them do enjoy sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. This has been an important topic for our conversation with our Afghan friends, and we do notice better receptivity in Kabul on our key concerns now.
(Khalid Mehmood, Express News): Sir, major decisions are being taken and shared via tweets. Pakistan's oil and minerals decision has also been announced through a tweet. Don't you think that this is a violation of diplomatic norms? Secondly, an additional 19% tariff have been imposed on Pakistan by America. Need your comment on this.
Spokesperson: Sir, it is a question of personal choice. If one believes in more traditional diplomacy, he will wait for an official long handout, which was customary 20 years ago. But now, in an era of instant communication, what was issued in a long press note in an abbreviated form is immediately released in the form of a tweet. I will not be able to comment on that as it is a question of personal choice. Our Foreign Ministry also took some time, but we do now operate an account on X (Twitter) and we continue to issue our position on that platform. This has become a new medium of information sharing.
About the second question, we have mentioned the Ministry of Commerce and Finance will share the details of the agreement.
(Aijaz Ahmed, GNN News): Sir, I want to draw your attention to an issue. 500 Pakistanis were working in a call centre located near Thailand - Cambodian border. After Thailand - Cambodian conflict, they are stranded there. Allegedly Chinese police is deployed in that region. The stranded Pakistanis are facing physical abuse, and allegedly one man who tried to escape was found dead after 15 days. Pakistani Embassy retrieved his body. But people e-mailed Pakistani Mission in Cambodia and received no reply. It is unfortunate that complaints are filed against majority of Pakistani Missions, but no action is taken by the Foreign Ministry. Please raise this issue and if the Chinese are involved in this then Pakistan must talk to China to help stranded Pakistan in this matter.
Secondly, questions are being raised on the latest Pakistan-US trade deal as to how Pakistan will benefit from this and at what cost? What concessions will Pakistan receive? 19% Tariff is no concession for Pakistan. Suddenly a deal is announced by the US President, but it has been 48 hours since the trade deal was announced, and no details have been made public.
In President Donald Trump's tweet, he talked about oil. In addition to this, will trade be conducted on other fields as well or trade will be just limited to oil?
Spokesperson: I have already answered the question about trade deal. The Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Finance will brief you on that.
Regarding your first question, Sir you have your critical views, and they are more than welcome. All embassies of Pakistan are working efficiently, their help and success, perhaps may be underreported. We have received different reports on the situation in Cambodia. We have forwarded these reports to our Embassy which is in touch with the local authorities. About a third country being involved, I cannot comment on that until the Pakistan Embassy briefs us on the actual situation. The Embassy has to follow the diplomatic protocol and engage with the local authorities accordingly. The first point of contact is the Foreign Ministry of the country concerned that guides and facilitate us. The Embassy is already in touch with Foreign Ministry of Cambodia, and when we have clear and credible information we will share it with you.
(Anwar Abbass, 24 News): Is there any form of active diplomatic communication or dialogue between Pakistan and India, whether through USA or any other country? Thank you.
Spokesperson: We have repeatedly emphasized Pakistan's diplomatic position. About diplomatic communication we have High Commissions working in two countries at the Charge d' Affaires level and at reduced strength. They have routine contacts with the respective Foreign Ministry. Lastly, there are other channels of communication, including Director General Military Operations which is also working. However, you may have listened to the Indian position as it came out in the Lok Saba debate and Pakistan in contrast remains open to a composite dialogue, and diplomatic solution to the problems.
(Ghazala Noreen, Suno TV): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in his recent visit to the US, answered a question related to Dr Aafia Siddiqui which became a point of discussion and arguments in Social Media. Did Pakistan change its policy regarding Dr Aafia Siddiqui? Your comments on this. Thank you.
Spokesperson: No, ma'am, there is no change in our position. You must have also seen Prime Minister meeting with her sister. Remarks mentioning Doctor Aafia Siddiqui's case during Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister talks on 25th July 2025 at the Atlantic Council are being completely misconstrued. The government led by Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif has consistently pursued diplomatic and legal avenues to secure Doctor Siddiqui's release from the US custody and remains committed to this cause. Pakistan has prioritized Doctor Siddiqui's case since 2010 conviction. Pakistan has worked to uphold Doctor Siddiqui's rights and humanitarian concerns through High Level diplomacy, clemency requests, consular access and legal support. Attempts on social media to misrepresent the government's efforts in this regard are regrettable. The government will continue to tirelessly pursue the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui while upholding international law and bilateral cooperation.
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