The Foreign Office on Friday rejected media reports claiming that Islamabad and Kabul held talks in Saudi Arabia, saying it had “no knowledge” of any such engagement.
The spokesperson also addressed border tensions, humanitarian aid plans, and efforts to rescue 38 Pakistanis trapped in Myanmar.
Responding to widespread media claims, the Foreign Office spokesperson clarified that Islamabad has “seen media reports” regarding Pak-Afghan talks hosted in Saudi Arabia but has no information confirming such meetings.
The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s position that any engagement must prioritise security and stability.
Border security takes precedence
Commenting on the situation at the Pak-Afghan border, the spokesperson said opening the border cannot come at the cost of civilian safety. “If opening the Pak-Afghan border leads to massacre, then it is better to keep the border closed,” the spokesperson stated.
“Protecting our people and citizens is more important than opening the border,” they added, stressing that national security remains paramount.
Also Read: Pakistan opens Torkham, Chaman borders for UN aid to Afghanistan
The spokesperson said Pakistan had decided to send an aid convoy to Afghanistan, but could not confirm whether it would actually depart. “We do not know whether or not the aid convoy will go to Afghanistan,” the spokesperson clarified, suggesting logistical or security concerns may be under review.
Recovery of 38 Pakistanis trapped in Myanmar
The Foreign Office said the case of 38 Pakistani nationals stranded in Myanmar remains a top priority. “The issue is on our radar,” the spokesperson said, noting that Pakistan’s missions in Thailand and Myanmar are in contact regarding the matter.
Islamabad is working with both governments to ensure the safe return of the affected individuals.
Responding to a question about Middle East outreach, the spokesperson confirmed that Pakistan is not in contact with Israel at this time.
Reported Pak-Afghan talks in Saudi Arabia
A couple of days ago, foreign media reports quoted Pakistani and Afghan officials, saying that a new round of peace talks between the two countries in Saudi Arabia last weekend had failed to produce a breakthrough to end tensions between them.
The officials were quoted as saying that the latest talks followed a Saudi initiative and included representatives from Pakistan’s military, intelligence services and Foreign Office. Both sides agreed to maintain the ceasefire, they said.
Pak-Afghan border reopening
A day ago, responding to a humanitarian appeal from the United Nations, the Pakistan government decided to open the Torkham and Chaman trade crossings to facilitate urgent delivery of food, medicine, and essential relief supplies to Afghanistan.
The decision was taken on humanitarian grounds following a request from the UN. In consultation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce issued formal instructions to Member Customs, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Directorate General of Transit.
Customs officials at Torkham received the orders and preparations for relief cargo movement have begun.
