Pakistan has rejected India’s statement on action against terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan, calling the remarks by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs baseless and contrary to facts.
According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, Pakistan takes legitimate action against terrorist hideouts and specific targets in accordance with international law.
The spokesperson said the purpose of these actions is to protect Pakistani citizens and safeguard national security.
Pakistan accuses India of regional interference
The Foreign Office said India has a long history of creating instability in the region and interfering in the internal affairs of neighbouring countries.
It added that India has continued to violate the right to self-determination of the people of occupied Kashmir for the past eight decades.
India accused of backing anti-Pakistan groups
The spokesperson said India has also been involved in sponsoring anti-Pakistan terrorist groups from Afghan soil.
The Foreign Office said Indian allegations and provocative statements against Pakistan should not be taken seriously.
It clarified that Pakistan will continue to take all necessary and appropriate measures under international law to protect its citizens and national security.
Pakistan, India exchange prisoner lists
Separately, Pakistan and India exchanged lists of prisoners under the 2008 Consular Access Agreement.
Under the agreement, both countries exchange prisoner lists twice a year, on January 1 and July 1. The lists were handed over to the respective High Commissioners in Islamabad and New Delhi.
Pakistan handed over a list of 250 Indian prisoners to the Indian High Commission. According to the Foreign Office, 52 Indian citizens and 198 Indian fishermen are currently held in Pakistani jails. India handed Pakistan a list of 439 Pakistani or alleged Pakistani prisoners.
The list includes 386 Pakistani citizens and 53 fishermen held in Indian jails.
Pakistan seeks release of prisoners
Pakistan demanded the immediate release and repatriation of 97 Pakistani prisoners who have completed their sentences in India.
These include 64 citizens and 33 fishermen.
The Foreign Office also urged India to ensure the safety, better treatment and immediate consular access of Pakistani prisoners.
Diplomatic efforts to continue
The spokesperson said consular access should not be delayed and Pakistan will continue diplomatic efforts for the early return of its prisoners.
The Foreign Office said Islamabad remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of Pakistani nationals held abroad.
