Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi on Thursday delivered a wide-ranging press briefing, reaffirming Islamabad’s strong stance on India, Afghanistan, and regional security while highlighting diplomatic engagements with Central Asian states and the United States.
He emphasized that diplomacy continues even during clashes and war, but warned that Pakistan would give a strong response to any future Indian aggression.
Strong message on India, security
The spokesperson said Pakistan has shot down Indian warplanes, adding that even the companies that manufactured the aircraft had confirmed the development.
He reiterated that a strong response would be given to any future Indian aggression.
Referring to recent tensions, Andrabi said Pakistan had praised the peaceful role of the United States during the 90-hour war with India.
He also termed the Indian Foreign Ministry’s statement regarding the Islamabad blast as “based on allegations.”
Indus Waters Treaty, legal battles
The Foreign Office said Pakistan presented a strong position against India at the International Court of Justice. Pakistan informed the court about India’s alleged violations and reiterated that it would not compromise on its water rights.
The spokesperson added that Pakistan’s legal team attended hearings at the International Court of Arbitration in The Hague. He stated that India had been invited to participate under the Indus Waters Treaty and was bound to attend the hearing. Pakistan reaffirmed that all parties must adhere to the treaty.
He also noted that internationally recognized maps of Pakistan and India are available on the United Nations website.
Afghanistan, TTP, ISIS concerns
Andrabi stressed that Pakistan does not want Afghan soil to be used against it.
Citing a report by the UN Sanctions Committee, he said the banned TTP is carrying out operations with the support of the de facto Afghan administration.
The report also confirmed that ISKP is active in northern Afghanistan, while the movement of the banned TTP in Afghanistan and its operations against Pakistan have been verified.
He further highlighted cooperation between Fitna-ul-Hindustan, Fitna-ul-Kharij and the banned BLA in Afghanistan.
The spokesperson also stated that the mastermind of ISIS is present in Afghanistan and is cooperating in operations against Pakistan.
Regarding Iran’s possible recognition of Afghanistan, Andrabi said he was not aware of any such decision, adding that it is the sovereign choice of any country whether or not to recognize another state.
Central Asia ties strengthened
The spokesperson said Pakistan and Uzbekistan agreed to promote bilateral relations and increase trade to $2 billion by 2029.
He also described the visit of the President of Kazakhstan as successful.
During the visit, the Kazakh president met with Pakistan’s prime minister and president. Security and defense cooperation were discussed, and both sides agreed to hold joint military exercises.
The two countries also agreed to raise their bilateral trade volume to $1 billion.
Gaza Peace Board, US engagement
Andrabi confirmed that the prime minister will attend the Gaza Peace Board meeting in Washington, USA. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will also participate.
He said Pakistan sincerely participated in the Gaza Peace Board meeting and reaffirmed support for peace efforts.
The spokesperson also confirmed the prime minister’s participation in the Board of Peace meeting in Washington but clarified that no visit to Germany had ever been announced.
UAE loan rollover
On economic matters, Andrabi said the issue of loan rollover by the United Arab Emirates was raised. He assured that with the positive efforts of Ishaq Dar, the UAE agreed to roll over the loan.
He also stated that the list of strategic exports was reviewed this week, and the revised list aims to ensure non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
The spokesperson said it is regrettable to involve politics in cricket or weaponize the sport. He clarified that Pakistan’s decision not to play against India was taken to prevent the game from becoming a political weapon.
According to him, India was trying to use cricket as a tool against Bangladesh, and Pakistan’s decision was meant to keep politics out of the sport.
Andrabi expressed regret over what he described as ignoring mob killings of Muslims in India. He said that last year, 55 Muslims lost their lives in such incidents.
Saudi ties, MBS upcoming visit
Referring to Pakistan-Saudi Arabia joint statements, the spokesperson said it was announced that the Saudi Crown Prince would visit Pakistan this year.
However, he clarified that there is currently no confirmed information about the visit of Mohammed bin Salman.
Summing up the briefing, Andrabi reiterated that diplomacy continues even during clashes and war.
He described the defense minister’s statement as detailed and emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, water rights, and regional security interests while continuing diplomatic engagement.
