ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said Pakistan marked one year since ‘Operation Marka-e-Haq,’ calling it an important event in the country’s history. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to its security and sovereignty. He said, “Pakistan Zindabad.”
Speaking at the weekly press briefing, he said the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister held multiple contacts with foreign counterparts over the past week. He said the Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was also among those contacted.
The spokesperson said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the suspension of Operation Freedom in a recent statement.
He said Pakistan repatriated 85 nationals from Uganda after paying a fine of $400 each. He said authorities arrested them for violating visa regulations.
The Foreign Office said Pakistan prioritizes peace in South Asia. It said international partners also support regional stability. The spokesperson said provocative statements occasionally emerge from New Delhi. He said Pakistan always maintains a position aligned with international law.
On a possible Iran–US agreement, he said Pakistan is facilitating communication between the two sides. He expressed hope for early progress. He added in a lighter remark that he did not know whether the deal would be one page or two, and said it may depend on the “font.”
On 10 Pakistani nationals held by pirates in Somalia, he said efforts continue for their release. He said authorities have ensured their safety and remain in contact with the Somali government.
On ties with India, he said Pakistan does not seek war or confrontation. He said Pakistan supports dialogue. However, he warned that Pakistan would respond strongly in case of aggression. He said all options, including the Indus Waters Treaty, remain under consideration.
On Afghanistan, he said some local-level agreements in border areas were welcome. However, he said Pakistan’s core concern remains the use of Afghan soil for terrorism. He said improved relations depend on clear assurances on this issue.
Condemning recent militant attacks in Balochistan, he said security forces are actively responding to the situation. He said Pakistan is raising concerns over external facilitation of terrorism at international forums.
He also expressed concern over India’s arms procurement. He said Pakistan will maintain a credible defence capability.
The Foreign Office said cases of Pakistani nationals returning from the UAE are being handled individually. It said no political dimension is involved in these matters.
