Pakistan is prepared to discuss any pending concerns with India: FO

Pakistan is willing to discuss any outstanding issues with India, but New Delhi has the last say in the matter.

At Thursday’s weekly news briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan made this statement.

Speaking about the upcoming diplomatic engagements, he mentioned that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is currently on an official visit to the United States. He will discuss regional and international issues, including as Iran and ceasefire efforts, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

He clarified that dates are still being finalised for the Iranian President’s visit to Pakistan.

Shafqat Ali Khan reiterated that the Iranian President’s visit will cover significant topics and that Pakistan-Iran relations are still robust. He did, however, state that it is too soon to say whether the Pak-Iran gas pipeline will be discussed.

Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to economic reform, climate action, and sustainable development in his remarks at the UN. He also had a thorough conversation with the UN Secretary-General about regional and international issues, such as the need for multilateral solutions, the Jammu and Kashmir problem, and the Indus Waters Treaty.

Khan pointed out that the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2788, which aims to encourage the peaceful settlement of international disputes, while Pakistan was president.

In his UN speech, the foreign minister urged an immediate ceasefire in Palestine, a halt to attacks on schools and hospitals, and the protection of civilians. Israel’s assaults on Syria were also sharply denounced by Pakistan, which called them a flagrant breach of international law.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s pledge to provide Gaza with humanitarian help as soon as access points are established.

Commenting on recent clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, the spokesperson said Pakistan is monitoring the situation and supports a peaceful resolution of all disputes.

Khan stated that investigations into the Afghan visa fraud issue are still ongoing. Referring to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent visit to Afghanistan, he said ties between the two countries have improved, though the presence of terrorist safe havens remains a major concern under discussion.

Plans are also underway for a future visit by the Afghan Foreign Minister to Pakistan, and bilateral trade is increasing. Responding to a question about BRICS membership, Khan said Pakistan is making serious efforts to join the organisation.