ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday reiterated that it remains firmly committed to its long-standing position of not allowing its land or airspace to be used against Iran, the Foreign Office said during its weekly briefing.
Foreign Office Spokesperson stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently received a telephone call from the Amir of Qatar, during which both leaders expressed satisfaction over bilateral relations and mutual cooperation.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also held a telephone conversation with the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties.
The spokesperson added that Ishaq Dar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss the current situation in Iran.
He also held telephone conversations with the Foreign Ministers of Myanmar and Indonesia’s Minister for Investment, underscoring Pakistan’s active diplomatic engagement at the regional and international levels.
Responding to questions regarding reported US visa restrictions, the spokesperson said Pakistan has taken note of the reports and is in contact with US authorities on the matter.
He said the United States is reviewing its visa policy and expressed hope that visas for Pakistan would be restored soon. The spokesperson added that recent developments related to US immigration emerged late last night and Pakistan is closely monitoring the situation.
On regional issues, the Foreign Office spokesperson said India continues to violate United Nations Security Council resolutions on Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He reiterated that Pakistan seeks smooth and stable trade relations with the United States, while trade with Iran is being conducted in accordance with international laws.
Pakistan, he said, remains in contact with both Iran and the US regarding trade matters, and all commercial engagements with other countries are taking place within legal frameworks.
Expressing confidence in Iran’s ability to manage its internal situation, the spokesperson said Pakistan believes Iran will handle challenges with wisdom and foresight.
He recalled Pakistan’s role in past Iranian nuclear negotiations and reaffirmed that Pakistan’s position on not allowing its territory or airspace to be used against Iran remains unchanged.
The spokesperson also said Pakistan’s benchmark regarding the Abraham Accords is the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. He added that Pakistan is participating in the Gaza peace process through a group of Arab and Islamic countries.
Regarding students stranded abroad, the spokesperson said the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul is working on the return of students from Afghanistan.
He confirmed that a large number of Pakistani students stranded in Iran have reached Gwadar, with government authorities facilitating their return.
According to estimates, 54 students returned on Wednesday, while around two dozen had returned earlier. Further details on additional arrivals will be shared soon.
