The Foreign Office, in its weekly media briefing, addressed a wide range of critical regional and international issues, including the situation of Afghan refugees, US trade policy, evolving diplomatic relations, and recent visa-related developments.
Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan emphasized Pakistan’s strong ties with neighbouring Afghanistan, describing the recent visit of the special representative to Kabul as “very important.” He reiterated that Pakistan has always stood by the Afghan people during challenging times and is committed to supporting them under international norms.
Responding to concerns over the repatriation of Afghan refugees, the spokesperson clarified that the process is non-discriminatory and applies to all undocumented foreigners in Pakistan. He stated that Afghan nationals are welcome to return with valid visas and added that steps were being taken to ensure border security.
“We are in touch with international organizations regarding the situation of refugees,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s generosity on this humanitarian issue like no other country.
Commenting on visa-related reports, Shafqat Ali Khan acknowledged media claims regarding Saudi Arabia’s suspension of visas for 14 countries and said he is in contact with the relevant authorities for clarification. He also denied any visa ban on Pakistani nationals by the UAE.
He further reported that the foreign minister held a telephonic conversation with his Saudi counterpart and discussed matters of mutual interest. They also reiterated the commitment to further strengthen the relations between their two countries.
On US policies, the FO spokesperson expressed concern over recent tariff changes and the reported suspension of educational visas. “Such steps will negatively impact developing countries,” he remarked. The PM has formed a steering committee to monitor the situation, while Pakistan remains in touch with Washington to address these developments. He added that Islamabad wants issues to be resolved through negotiations.
In a key diplomatic update, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during which the issue of American weapons left in Afghanistan -- now allegedly being used against Pakistani forces -- was discussed.
To a question about expansion of the US embassy in Afghanistan, the spokesperson said that was a matter between those two countries. "The handover of Bagram Air Base to the US is still just a rumour," he added.
Regarding regional diplomacy, the Foreign Office confirmed Ishaq Dar's upcoming visit to Turkey from April 11 to 13, and noted his meeting with the minister of economic affairs of Azerbaijan. Agreements are expected during the scheduled visit of Azerbaijan’s President to Pakistan.
Shafqat Ali Khan also commented on Pakistan’s growing cooperation with China, calling their relationship “close and long-standing.” He stressed the importance of Chinese investments and assured full security for Chinese nationals working in Pakistan.
On the Iran nuclear issue, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and emphasized dialogue as the preferred means for resolving complex global issues. He also described Iran as a close friend and neighbour.
Responding to a question about India's controversial Waqf Amendment Bill, the spokesperson termed it a “usurper measure,” saying it is being used to seize mosques and Muslim shrines across India.
On the topic of Pakistan's missile program, he clarified that it is entirely indigenous and compliant with international norms, rejecting concerns over recent US sanctions.
In response to a query about Tahawwur Rana, a suspect in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the spokesperson clarified that he is a Canadian citizen and has not renewed his Pakistani citizenship for over two decades.
