PTBP Web Desk
In a weekly press briefing held in Islamabad on Thursday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch addressed several critical international relations issues, emphasizing Pakistan’s security concerns and diplomatic engagements with neighboring and global powers.
Support for Terror Groups: Spokesperson Baloch explicitly voiced Pakistan’s concerns regarding India’s involvement with terrorist entities. She underscored this as a factual assertion, not just an allegation, pointing out that Pakistan had previously arrested an Indian Naval Officer, identified as the mastermind behind espionage and terror activities in Balochistan. This incident has been used to highlight what Pakistan perceives as an ongoing threat from across its borders.
Request for Action: Baloch urged Afghan authorities to take decisive action against terror groups operating on their soil. She stressed the importance of not allowing Afghanistan to be used as a launchpad for attacks against Pakistan or any other neighboring nations. The repeated calls for action suggest a growing frustration with the lack of response or perceived inaction from Afghanistan, with the spokesperson warning that the patience of the Pakistani populace should not be tested further.
Protection of Chinese Interests: In response to a question about safeguarding Chinese nationals and projects within Pakistan, particularly in light of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Baloch reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the safety and security of its strategic partner.
Bilateral Dialogue: She highlighted the robust dialogue and cooperation between Pakistan and China on various fronts, including counterterrorism and security. This dialogue, she noted, is rooted in mutual respect, beneficial cooperation, and respect for sovereignty, describing the relationship with China as that of “Iron brothers.”
Resilience Against Disruption: Both nations, according to Baloch, possess the resolve and capability to thwart any attempts to undermine their strategic partnership, signaling a strong joint stance against external threats or internal destabilization efforts.
Historical and Future Ties: Addressing the relationship with the United States, Baloch pointed out the long-standing history of friendly relations between the two countries. She advocated for building upon this relationship based on mutual respect, mutual interest, and non-interference in each other’s domestic affairs.
Diplomatic Outlook: This stance reflects Pakistan’s desire to maintain and possibly strengthen its ties with the US, focusing on cooperation that respects national sovereignty and internal policies.
