Transcript of the Weekly Press Briefing by the Spokesperson, Friday, April 25, 2025

Assalam-o-Alaikum,

Welcome to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

I welcome you all at the weekly press briefing.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) yesterday. The participants discussed the national security environment and the regional situation, particularly in the wake of Pahalgam attack in the Anantnag District of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on 22 April 2025.

For record I will once again read the decisions of the Committee that are as following:

Pakistan vehemently rejects the Indian announcement to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. The Treaty is a binding international agreement brokered by the World Bank and contains no provision for unilateral suspension. Water is a Vital National Interest of Pakistan, a lifeline for its 240 million people and its availability will be safeguarded at all costs. Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power.

Noting the reckless and irresponsible behavior of India, which disregards international conventions, UN Security Council Resolutions and international obligations at will, Pakistan shall exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India including but not limited to Simla Agreement in abeyance, till India desists from its manifested behaviour of fomenting terrorism inside Pakistan; trans-national killings; and non-adherence to international law and UN Resolutions on Kashmir.

Pakistan shall close down the Wagah Border Post, with immediate effect. All cross-border transit from India through this route shall be suspended, without exception. Those who have crossed with valid endorsements may return through that route immediately but not later than 30 April 2025.

Pakistan suspends all visas under SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) issued to Indian nationals and deems them cancelled with immediate effect, with the exception of Sikh religious pilgrims. Indian nationals currently in Pakistan under SVES are instructed to exit within 48 hours, less Sikh pilgrims.

Pakistan declares the Indian Defence, Naval and Air Advisors in Islamabad persona non grata. They are directed to leave Pakistan immediately but not later than 30 April 2025. These posts in the Indian High Commission are deemed annulled. Support staff of these Advisors are also directed to return to India.

The strength of Indian High Commission in Islamabad will be reduced to 30 diplomats and staff members, with effect from 30 April 2025.

Pakistan's airspace will be closed with immediate effect for all Indian owned or Indian operated airlines.

All trade with India including to and from any third country through Pakistan is suspended forthwith.

The National Security Committee underscored that Pakistan and its Armed Forces remain fully capable and prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any misadventure, as clearly demonstrated by its measured yet resolute response to India's reckless incursion in February 2019.

In conclusion, India's belligerent measures have vindicated the Two- Nation Theory as well as the apprehensions of Quaid- E- Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, as encapsulated in the 1940 Pakistan Resolution, which continues to echo the sentiments of the complete Pakistani Nation.

The Pakistani Nation remains committed to peace, but will never allow anyone to transgress its sovereignty, security, dignity and their inalienable rights.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, paid a two-day official visit toTurkiye, on 22 April 2025.

During the visit, the Prime Minister held extensive discussions with President Erdogan on bilateral relations and exchanged views on recent developments in the region and beyond. These regular bilateral exchanges stand for a continuation of robust dialogue and underscore the shared commitment to further elevate the multifaceted partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was on an official visit to Pakistan from 20-21 April 2025. During the visit, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan called on the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

He also held talks with the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The entire spectrum of bilateral relations, with particular focus on trade and investment, energy cooperation, and people-to-people linkages was reviewed during the meeting. Besides the focus on further cementing excellent bilateral relations, regional security and regional and global issues of mutual interest and concern were also discussed in a candid manner. After the delegation-level talks the dignitaries signed Memorandums of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation, the establishment of Joint Committee for Consular Affairs and exchanged MOU on the establishment of the UAE-Pakistan Joint Business Council.

At the invitation of the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda, Ambassador Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, visited Pakistan from 21-22 April 2025.

The two sides while lauding the upward trajectory of bilateral relations between the two countries, expressed the resolve to further strengthen friendly ties within diverse fields, especially in trade, investment, education,and people-to-people exchanges.The two sides also signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of diplomatic training.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar paid a one day visit to Kabul on April 19, 2025. He was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising of Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq Khan, Mr. Tariq Bajwa, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Secretary Interior, Secretary Commerce and Trade, Secretary Railways, Additional Secretary MoFA, and representatives from FBR.

During the visit DPM/FM held meetings with the acting Afghan Prime Minister, acting Afghan DPM, and acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi. Both sides held extensive discussions on a range of issues including peace and security, people-to-people contacts and agreed to enhance bilateral trade, and economic cooperation to the mutual benefit of peoples of both the countries.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with his Uzbek counterpart Saidov Bakhtiyor Odilovich. DPM shared his discussions in Kabul regarding the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Line Project and hopped that three countries would soon sign the framework agreement for this important regional connectivity project.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Sayed Abbas Araghchi. They discussed bilateral relations, reaffirming resolve to deepen cooperation. Regional and global developments of mutual interest were also discussed.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Foreign Minister of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi. They reviewed existing bilateral ties and expressed satisfaction on the upward trajectory of bilateral relations. Regional and international current issues of mutual interest also came under discussion.

Special Secretary, Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan, met with the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Ambassador Andrey Rudenko, for the sixth round of Pakistan-Russia Bilateral Political Consultations on 23 April 2025 in Islamabad. The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory, and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening ties.

11thmeeting of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Working Group to Counter International Terrorism was held in Moscow on 22nd April 2025. Pakistan's delegation was led by the Special Secretary (United Nations), Nabeel Munir, while the Russian side was led by Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergey Vershinin.

The two sides held an in-depth exchange of views on the global and regional terrorism landscape, with particular attention to the evolving threat posed by terrorism in Afghanistan and the region. The discussions focused around the increasingly transnational nature of terrorism and the growing need for adaptive and cooperative strategies. It was decided to hold the next meeting of the Working Group in 2026.

Pakistan conveys its heartfelt condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a revered spiritual figure and a worldwide advocate for peace, interfaith dialogue, and compassion.

His Holiness demonstrated unwavering commitment to fostering unity among world religions, advocating for the oppressed, and promoting the inherent dignity of all humankind. Pakistan deeply values his tireless efforts to enhance mutual respect and understanding among diverse cultures and faiths.

The legacy of His Holiness - marked by profound humility, selfless service, and a unifying vision for humanity - will endure as an inspiration for generations to come. At this moment of profound sorrow, Pakistan stands in solidarity with our Catholic brothers and sisters worldwide and with all those touched by his extraordinary life of service.

I thank you.

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(Khawaja Hamza Iqbal, Media Today): If India escalates the situation further, especially through water aggression or cross border provocation, what would be Pakistan's measured but firm response? And will Pakistan urge the international community to impose sanctions or take diplomatic action against India for violating the Indus Water Treaty?

Spokesperson: The statement by the National Security Committee is very unambiguous in terms of explaining Pakistan's position on this important issue. The Indus water treaty is of critical importance for Pakistan's water security and economy. Naturally, we will take all appropriate steps to preserve its sanctity and smooth implementation. In the absence of any relevant legal provisions in the treaty, India is in no position to make a unilateral decision to hold it in abeyance. The unlawful, unilateral, and irresponsible Indian announcement threatens the very foundations of the entire edifice of interstate cooperation and smooth implementation of the treaties. Yesterday's announcement by the National Security Committee should be seen in this context. Pakistan is a responsible country. It remains committed to fulfill its obligations under international law and bilateral agreements. However, it takes two to tango. India should not create a situation where we are constrained to take extreme steps.

Spokesperson: And what was the second part of your question?

(Khawaja Hamza Iqbal, Media Today): In case of water aggression or cross border provocation by India, what would be Pakistan's response?

Spokesperson: In terms of cross border provocation, our National Security Committee statement is unambiguous. We will take all it takes to defend our sovereignty, territorial integrity. Thank you.

(Farhan Ali, Public News): Sir, Indian nationals are also part of PSL Cricket team, will they be sent back to India or will they get exemption to stay?

Spokesperson:Matter pertains to the Ministry of Interior and Pakistan Cricket Board. But I will check on this.

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): Sir, yesterday DPM/FM Senator Ishaq Dar shared that the documents shared with Pakistan's High Commissioner to India from the Indian side does not include any document related to abeyance of Indus Water Treaty. Can you please confirm that? Secondly, it is being alleged that around 56-60 Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails may be shown as involved in the attacks and encountered. Your Comments on that please.

Spokesperson: About the first question, Deputy Prime Minister has spoken clearly on that. With regards to Indian position on Indus Water Treaty, their Foreign Secretary, in a statement, announced it and they have further conveyed this position to us through a diplomatic note, but we do not accept their position. Secondly, the prisoners' issue is of utmost importance. We hope and trust that India will live up to its international and human rights obligations to look after the prisoners, which are undergoing their sentences in the Indian prisons.

(Shaukat Piracha, Aaj TV): Equating abeyance of Indus Water Treaty with act of war, as a very senior diplomat, how do you see how much is the distance between a threat of war and real war if the situation escalates? Secondly, one BSF official constable PK Singh, crossed into Pakistani border and was later apprehended. Can you confirm his status?

Spokesperson: Sir, If I pronounce myself on this, I will be entering the domain of speculation as the question is speculative. However, I can reiterate our policy. Water system is absolutely vital and important for the survival of 240 million people of this country. The National Security Committee has clearly articulated Pakistan's position on the said matter. Any attempt to dramatically alter or stop the water would be considered as an act of war.

About the arrest of BSF official, we will share the status once we have complete official information with us.

(Imran Waseem, Aik News): Sir India cancelled visas of all Pakistanis across the board in its measures announced against Pakistan and they were given ultimatum to leave India within 2-7 days. However, Pakistan in its retaliatory measures cancelled visas of all Indian nationals with the exception of Sikh pilgrims. Why did Pakistan give this exemption?

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Sir in the prevailing tense situation between Pakistan and India, how do you see the future of Kartarpur corridor? Like Wagah border, will it be considered closed? And how do you see the future of Sikh pilgrims and hinduyatris in the future? Will, Pakistan issue visa under the mutual agreement or not?

Spokesperson: About the kartarpur corridor, at this point, the actions taken by our side have been stipulated authoritatively in the statement issued by the National Security Committee. We will share more details once things evolve further. With regards to exemption to Sikh pilgrims, we took this decision because we wanted to facilitate those pilgrims who have come to Pakistan.

(Faisal Kamal Pasha, We News):Given the Pakistan India situation, has any country approached Pakistan for the mediation?

Spokesperson: No sir, we are in touch with all our friends in capitals abroad and here in Islamabad. And we are conveying our position clearly. At this point, I do not have any information about mediation efforts.

(Mona Khan, Independent Urdu): Sir, what would be the implications for Pakistan and India, if Pakistan revokes Simla Agreement?

Spokesperson: Again, this is a speculative question. The National Security Committee has said very clearly that we have the option to do that if India goes down this path of escalation. Relations between two countries are based on certain structures and legal agreements including the UN Charter, international law and series of bilateral agreements. If one of the parties is utterly disinterested and if they think that bilateral agreements between the two countries are a favor given to another country, then that is a very unfortunate scenario. And in that case, we will exercise our options as the situation evolves.

(Abdullah Momand, Dawn): I have two questions. First there have been reports regarding firing on the LOC last night between the Pakistan and Indian forces. Can you comment? Secondly, most of the sections of the Shimla agreement are in favor of Pakistan so if we revoke this agreement, what will be the losses to Indian side? Thank you,

Spokesperson: Sir, bilateral agreements are for the mutual benefit of two countries. This is not a question of any country doing a favor to another country. We remain committed to all our international obligations. But if one country is utterly disinterested in any kind of relation, civilized discourse or interaction with the neighboring country, then we also reserve the right to take all necessary actions. About the firing on the LOC, I will wait for formal confirmation from the military sources.

(Zeeshan Syed, Neo TV): Sir India suspended Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan in its response conveyed that it will suspend Simla Agreement. Keeping in view the evolving situation, what other agreements could be considered for suspension from Pakistan side?

Spokesperson: This is again a speculative question. I have explained my position about Indus Water Treaty. And with regards to Simla Agreement, I have clarified the intent behind the statement of the National Security Committee.

(Raziq Mahmood Bhatti, Daily Kashmir News):Sir India's actions against muslims are in front of the entire world. They have recently passed a bill to destroy places of worship of muslims. More than 70 religious seminaries have already been destroyed. Latest in their anti-muslim acts is the act of letting dogs loose on women in burqas. Can we involve the international community in protesting against this bill?

Spokesperson: On the Waqf bill I have made our position clear in the last briefing. We are witnessing a very alarming trend of mistreatment of minorities in India.The situation has even gone beyond mistreatment. It is making difficult the life of all minorities, including Muslims and Christians, but primarily of Muslims, in terms of their culture, freedom to practice their religion. There are harrowing talescoming from India, and we keep flagging it for the attention of international community.

(Aamir Saeed Abbasi, Nukta News): Sir, is it true that during Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar's recent visit to Afghanistan, Afghan side once again requested Pakistan to stop its repatriation plans? And has Pakistan turned down the request?

Spokesperson: Sir we have outlined our position. There were certain concerns raised by the Afghan side including about difficulties being faced by returning Afghans and allegations of mistreatment. With regards to this issue, certain administrative measures have been finalized, including the establishment of 24 hours hotlines. As per Interior Ministry, the hotline is already active.

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency):Deputy Prime minister's visit to Afghanistan has raised some hopes. But yesterday, the Defense Minister while speaking about India, mentioned Afghanistan again and again. And I think such kind of statements after the visit are not useful. Why Defense Minister always refers to Afghanistan, especially in such situations when we have problems with India? Why Defense Minister is interested in increasing Pakistan's enemies, than friends?

Spokesperson: There is no question of increasing enemies. Afghanistan is our neighbor. And as I have been repeatedly stating that it is not just a neighbor, but we have centuries old relations, layers of interaction between the two societies and two governments. We want friendly relations with Afghanistan, and it was in pursuit of this objective that the Deputy Prime Minister paid an important visit to Afghanistan. Various important understandings have been reached between the two sides, particularly in the area of strong political interactions at the Foreign Ministry level; easing the challenges impeding the full potential of trade; and with regards to the problems related to repatriation and return of Afghan refugees. Two sides are in close coordination on moving forward. About specific questions pertaining to the Defense Minister's statement, I will refer you to the Ministry of Defense.

(Mateen Haider, G News): Thank you, Ambassador Shafqat Saab. So as far as India Pakistan situation is concerned, other than a possible strike against Pakistan, which definitely India is thinking at an appropriate time, so they are also actively engaged in narrative against Pakistan. At the same time since our presentation of last dossier five years back, there have been scores of incidents of Indian terrorism in Pakistan. Why Pakistan is so apologetic not preparing a fresh dossier? We are sitting in Security Council of United Nations, and we have seen Ambassadors again over here, why don't we take international community into confidence and present a comprehensive, latest dossier on Indian transnational terrorism, including target killing in Pakistan? Thank you.

Spokesperson: First of all, there is no question of being apologetic. That is your opinion, which I do not agree. And the second thing is, Pakistan has diplomatic channels with all the countries and they are active. We keep informing them and sharing the data, and now Indian activities in terms of transnational terrorism have become more cleargiven their audacity to carry out these extra judicial executions in Western countries. There is greater awareness of what India is trying to do, or the kind of policy it is pursuing. And earlier, it was restricted to Pakistan and our region. Now it has gone beyond the region. So, it is an international concern, and on our part, we continue to highlight and we will continue to work to robustly address this challenge.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Thank you so much, Spokesperson. Two questions since you mentioned that India has already sent a diplomatic note informing about their abeyance of the Indus Water Treaty, and you said that Pakistan does not accept it. But in the readout that you read from the National Security Committee meeting, it said, and it implied that if the abeyance is done, then Pakistan will go. Now that the note has been sent, will Pakistan be taking those measures? Because this is not speculative. This is very pointed, given the statement that you made repeated from the NSC, because they have already said they reject it that. Beyond the rejection, will Pakistan go for suspension or abeyance of the bilateral agreements? That is number one.

Number two in the Demarche that was given to the Pakistani Charge'd Affairs Saad Warrich by the Indian External Affairs Ministry, has there been an official allegation made on Pakistan with regards to the Pahalgam attack, because yesterday, the Pakistani Minister of Defense, was very categorical in saying that no formal allegation has been made. So has the Government of India communicated to the Government of Pakistan that Pakistani government or Pakistani nationals have been involved in the Pahalgam attack? Thank you.

Spokesperson: Actually, the second part of the question, I would not go into the details of diplomatic conversations which remain privileged. That is what I can tell you.

The first part, in terms of the articulation of the policy about the Indus Water, has been very clear. I think it is unambiguous. What we are talking about is a series of options which we will exercise. At this point in time, they have tried to convey that they are holding it in events. Water keeps flowing to Pakistan. We will see it how it progresses, but all options are on the table for Pakistan. It is our lifeline. It is our right, sanctified by international law, customary law, bilateral treaties. We will do everything to secure this right for our people.

(Azadeh Mishori, BBC News): Thank you. I do just like to clarify. Currently, no third countries have reached out to Pakistan to discuss the situation or mediate, and currently the World Bank, are they mediating? Is there any discussion with them about the IWT?

(Aamir Saeed Abbasi, Nukta News): Sir, who are the guarantors of Indus Water Treaty, and can you approach them?

Spokesperson: About the interaction, what you mentioned, ma'am, we have ongoing dialogue and interaction with our friends, through all Embassies abroad and Ambassadors here, it is ongoing. What I said was mediation so far, there is no effort at mediation. We have said that what India has done is unfortunate, without giving any evidence or looking at it, immediately jumping to conclusion and this threatening rhetoric. So, our side has clearly conveyed our position our policy; We will do everything to defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty. So,this is the first part.

And about Indus Water Treaty,it is a complex Treaty. It has worked very well over the years, over the decades, and there are procedures involved in it including arbitration and we will exercise all options which the treaty gives us.

(Mudassir Chaudhary, The Destination): From the briefing of the Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister, it was stated that dossier which was handed over to Pakistan by India does not mention anything regarding Indus Water Treaty. The way we responded to India, did we close airspace for India and trade with India with immediate effect?

Secondly, regarding remarks by the Defence Minister as Indian media portraying it with different angle due to which Indian public panicked, that we will attack Indian citizens if our citizens were targeted in terrorism. Please clarify this point as Khawaja Asif said if India will be involved in the terror activities in Pakistan, then we will respond in the same way.

Spokesperson: About first question, sir, what I can say is that decisions have been taken and they will be implemented immediately. But I do not know about the technical procedures, about issuing notifications, but the decision is very clear and firm. The government has not set a timeline on that.

About the second part of the question, I will again refer you to Defence Ministry but Indian involvement in terrorism in Pakistan is well known. It is beyond doubt. They have been involved. And it is not just Pakistan, internationally they have been involved in terrorism. India has been, as a state, involved in terrorism. But we will do everything to defend ourselves and to ensure our security.

(Jiang Chao, Xinhua News Agency): Under the current situation, did Pakistan set preconditions for direct diplomatic contact or mediation with India? If so, what are the preconditions set by Pakistan. Thank you.

Spokesperson: The situation right now is that an incident happened in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian system, in a way, went on an overdrive. There were threatening statements; a kind of jingoistic and belligerent atmosphere was being created in India. Certain things were stated at very high level. We have responded to that. This is what normally any country would do under diplomatic reciprocity, and also ensuring, reiterating our commitment to defend our interestsand territory. This is what we have done. So, at this point in time, as I mentioned, there is no effort and offer about the mediation. If an offer comes, we will see at that point in time.

(Aimen Jamil, The Pakistan Daily): What is Pakistan's stance on the security lapse in the Pahalgam incident, as it is a hub of tourism.

Spokesperson: About the earlier question regarding Indian media attitude, what I can say is that it is lamentable that the Indian media is blaming Pakistan, without verifiable evidence or credible investigation into the matter and creating a situation of war psychosis. Their finger pointing is in line with the habit of making unfounded claims to substantiate their government's position basically which is always the case.

On the second question, India has almost 800,000 security forces deployed in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir who practically have a license to kill any Kashmiri. So, in these circumstances, it is for them to see why this thing happened and how it did happen.

(Saqib Ali Rathore, Daily Kashmir Times): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister stated that there are some foreign nationals in Srinagar who are planning to conduct terrorist activities there. Do we have reports about them? Who they are? From which Nationality they belong and did we inform the government of their nationalities?

Spokesperson: India has a history of using different machinations, and at this point in time, I am not in a position to respond exactly in terms of the details.

(Ishtiaq Ahmed, APP English): As Pakistan has announced to cut trade ties with India, is this just a Tit for Tat decision, or it follows any cost and benefit analysis as who will lose more?

Spokesperson: The point is, it is the principle of diplomatic reciprocity. India perhaps thinks that bilateral trade is a favor given to another country, and then created an atmosphere making trade impossible, so, they have made it impossible to continue trade.

(Aijaz Ahmed, GNN News): Sir, National Security Committee suspended Afghan Transit Trade. I need clarification on those trucks which have made it to Afghan border, what will be their status? Will they cross over or will they be sent back?

Secondly, my question is, in the morning American Spokesperson stated that they are keenly watching the situation between India and Pakistan. But yesterday, Secretary of State gave a briefing so did the friendly countries demonstrated intention to mediate between India and Pakistan?

Spokesperson: About the first question, it is a question of technical detail. I will check it for you, and the right ministry to respond to this is Ministry of Commerce. About mediation, again, I will say there are no proposals at this point in time.

(Naveed Siddiqui, Business Recorder): Sir, NSC and you just mentioned that India's unilateral action of suspension of IWT will be considered an act of war. And what are we waiting for? What is the yard stick for Pakistan, if war is imposed, who will decide? If you are waiting for the official notification of suspension of IWT, and if they notify then will Pakistan go for war? And what is the yard stick. After the official notification, will Pakistan start the military buildup?

(Tahir Khan, NNI News Agency): From August 2019 to India's yesterday decision to suspend IWT, was trade being conducted during this time period or not? If not, then what is the significance of yesterday's decision?

Spokesperson: This is a speculative question. What the highest Forum has delineated is a principle of policy. If water is stopped coming into Pakistan, which is our lifeline then all options are on the table. We will excise all options.

About the trade, basically at this point in time, if there was trade or not, it does not matter. There won't be any trade, further. This is the clear policy directive.

(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD):I want to ask that under Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan and India are obliged not to hit water resources and water installations, and they are under protective umbrella of IWT. So, is the protective umbrella on water resources removed after India's suspension of Indus Water Treaty?

Spokesperson: On Indus Water Treaty question, I have made my position very clear, if you want. I can read it again. The Indus water treaty is of critical importance for Pakistan's water security and economy. Naturally, we will take all appropriate steps to preserve its sanctity and smooth implementation. In the absence of any relevant legal provisions in the treaty, India is in no position to make a unilateral decision to hold it in abeyance. The unlawful, unilateral and irresponsible Indian announcement threatens the very foundations of the entire edifice of interstate cooperation and smooth implementation of the treaties. This is the backdrop in which yesterday's announcement by the National Security Committee should be seen. Pakistan is a responsible country. It remains committed to fulfill its obligations under international law and bilateral agreements. However, it takes two to tango. India should not create a situation where we are constrained to take extreme steps.

(Kiran Butt, The Khorasan Diary):Sir, last night, in an interview with Sky News, our Minister for Defense, while answering a question by the anchor that, you do admit, sir, that Pakistan has a long history of backing, supporting, training and funding these terrorist organizations in which he responded that, well, we have been doing this dirty work for United States for three decades. So, while sitting on international media, accepting this that okay, we were funding these terrorists, what do you think, what kind of implementations these kind of statements can have?

And the second question is that United States did not mention Pakistan, while the state, press briefing was going on last night, and they said that we are still monitoring the situation right now between India and Pakistan, but they did not commit on the status of Jammu and Kashmir. So these two statements coming back to back, do you think that have implications in the longer run?

Spokesperson: I have not seen the Sky News interview. I would refer you to Ministry of Defense for that. And secondly, we are following the international official responses and statements on that. And overall, we continue to engage with our partners, and we are explaining our position.

(Muhammad Adnan, Nikkei Asia): So, my question is about meeting of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister with UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Was the issue of difficulties faced by Pakistanis in getting UAE visas, was that issue discussed in that meeting, because, according to the data of Bureau of Overseas Employment in 2023 around 230,000 Pakistanis got work visas of UAE, and that has reduced to 60,000 in 2024 so there's like a stark difference.

Spokesperson: All matters relating to bilateral relations were discussed in a very friendly and candid manner. And you may have seen that one of the agreements about establishment of a joint committee for Consular Affairs has been signed between the two countries. UAE remains a very important friend and partner of Pakistan. There is a huge Pakistani diaspora, who is doing very well in UAE, and who have contributed enormously to UAE's development, and they have been looked after very well by the UAE and about the specific question, one data point, does not tell the whole story. At times, it is cyclical, but Pakistanis are traveling to UAE, working and living there.

(Anas Mallick, Capital TV): Coming back to the visit of Foreign Minister to Afghanistan, in his press conference in Afghanistan, he said that "while Pakistan will not allow its land to be used for terrorism at the same time, we expect and request and hope from the Afghan side that they too will take our concerns very seriously". Was the matter taken up and is there an assurance from the Afghan side?

With regards to Pope Francis's burial, is there anyone traveling from Pakistan for the last rights of Pope Francis?

Spokesperson: About the second question, there will be representation from Pakistan. I have got some information, but I will wait for official confirmation. I will convey that to you.

About the first part, this is something which you have been hearing from me for all the weeks, and from the Government of Pakistan's perspective, also. One of the impediments for the two countries to realize the full potential of relations has been this aspect which you have hinted at. Of course, all issues, entire spectrum, complete agenda of bilateral relations were discussed in a very friendly manner with the Afghan side, and certain institutional and practical measures have been decided upon. And we are resolved to continue to work on that for improving the overall bilateral relations with Afghanistan.

(Azadeh Mishori, BBC News): Does Pakistan have any information on any Pakistani nationals currently detained by Indian police in relation to what has been happening in Kashmir, because Indian police has released a notice claiming two Pakistani nationals have been our suspects in this.

Spokesperson: No, we do not have any information on arrest of any Pakistani national.

(Mateen Haider, G News): Mr. Spokesperson, if you have the data, how many Pakistanis were on a visit to India since this development took place, and as India ordered that all Pakistanis who are on a visit to India may leave in next 48 hours. So, what is the data available with you currently? How many Pakistanis were visiting on a pilgrimage, on a tourist visa, on medical tourists and things like that. And is Pakistani High Commission in touch with the Pakistanis over there? Thank you.

(Aijaz Ahmed, GNN News): Right now, how many Indians are on visit to Pakistan?

Spokesperson: In Pakistan, there is freedom of travel. Any Pakistani gets a visa, he goes abroad and he is not required to inform the government where he or she is traveling. That is the first point. But in terms of airport exits, we keep a data in terms of the flights going out, but not who is going where. The third point is, we will see the Ministry of Interior would have the data about how many people have crossed Wagah Atari border. Finally, a Pakistani abroad in a foreign country, if he or she voluntarily registers themselves with the embassies then the Embassy has the data. But this consolidated data is not available as such. I need to check details of Indians currently visiting Pakistan as I don't have exact figure with me.

(Syeda Quratul Ain, Independent Urdu): The Foreign Minister in the Senate session has said a few minutes ago that he has received intimation from the Saudi government that his counterpart would talk to him in the evening today. So, can you please brief a little more about it?

Spokesperson: Ma'am, I need to check. This is something I do not have an answer. I will check and I will get back to you regarding the agenda.

(Abdullah Momand, Dawn News): Some two weeks ago, a US delegation, meet with Zahir Jafar who was awarded death sentence in Noor Muqadam murder case. So, what was the purpose of that meeting by the US delegates with the Zahir Jafar in Adiyala jail?

Spokesperson: I have not seen this news. I will try to find out from Ministry of Interior. I'm not aware of this. Which delegation are you talking about? The Congressional, or the US Embassy. Ok-US Embassy consular staff. In terms of the Vienna Convention, we are bound to provide consular access if the embassy asks, and our own internal procedures are met, and the prisoner is willing to receive his or her own embassy, then we do provide it as a routine diplomatic activity there is nothing extraordinary about it.