Transcript of the Press Briefing by the Spokesperson on Thursday 15th January 2026

Ladies and Gentlemen Assalam o Alaikum!

I welcome you all at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

I will begin with a roundup of the activities over the past one week.

Prime Minister's Telephone Call with the Amir of the State of Qatar, His

Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

H.E. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call from His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, last evening.

During their warm and cordial conversation, the two leaders expressed satisfaction at the current trajectory of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Qatar and reaffirmed their shared resolve to further strengthen these time- tested fraternal bonds. Recent developments in the Middle East were also discussed.

The Prime Minister appreciated Qatar's constructive and proactive role in promoting peace, dialogue, and mediation across the region, and acknowledged its meaningful efforts to defuse tensions through diplomatic solutions. He assured the Qatari leadership that Pakistan would also continue to play a positive role in maintaining regional peace and stability. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact in the days ahead.

As you know the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, is undertaking an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain from 13- 16 January 2026. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation.

President Asif Ali Zardari met King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at Al- Qudaibiya Palace, Manama. He was accorded a guard of honour. Talks covered trade & investment, defence coop, support for the Pakistani community and regional & global issues. The King conferred the President with the Sheikh Isa Award.

During the visit, the President is scheduled to hold meetings with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain. The discussions will focus on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest.

The visit seeks to reinforce Pakistan's longstanding cooperation with the brotherly Gulf nation of Bahrain while expanding opportunities for collaboration in trade and economic partnership, defence and security, and people-to-people ties.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, led the Pakistan delegation at the 22nd Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers last weekend. The Extraordinary Session was convened on Somaliland region of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In his address, the DPM/FM strongly condemned the illegal and unlawful recognition by Israel of the Somaliland region, as well as the subsequent unwarranted and highly provocative visit of its official to the territory. He termed such acts as "political aggression and a direct assault on Somalia's internationally recognized borders, setting a perilous precedent and threatening peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea region, and beyond".

He rejected any proposal for the dislocation of the Palestinian people and reaffirmed Pakistan's principled commitment to an independent, contiguous, and sovereign State of Palestine, based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al- Sharif as its capital.

Appreciating the OIC's principled position and consistent support for the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the DPM urged the OIC to step up its efforts towards the realization of the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

The Extraordinary OIC Session demonstrated the collective determination of OIC Member States on various issues facing Muslim Ummah particularly Somalia and sent a clear message to the international community on upholding the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On the sidelines of the OIC CFM, the DPM held pull aside meetings with his counterparts from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Maldives and Egypt. He also held meeting with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia and the Secretary General of the OIC.

While in Jeddah, the DPM/FM inaugurated the new building of Pakistan's Consulate General.

He raised the Pakistani flag on the premises of new chancery building followed by ribbon cutting, unveiling the plaque and tree plantation in the Chancery lawn.

In his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister lauded the efforts of Consulate General of Pakistan, Jeddah and the support provided by the authorities of Saudi Arabia for making the project, a reality. He emphasized that the government is committed to facilitate overseas Pakistanis through provision of effective consular services.

After viewing the building and facilities, the DPM expressed satisfaction on the completion of the project and authorized the transfer of operations and Consular services to the new chancery building at the earliest.

As you are aware Western Region Saudi Arabia is home to about 1.8 million Pakistanis. The new chancery building and its facilities improves service delivery for the Pakistani community there, make their visits a pleasant experience and provides better venues for community-welfare events and functions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar received a telephone call from the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov. Reaffirming the strong and growing Pakistan-Uzbekistan bilateral relations, the two FMs underscored the importance of sustained momentum in political, economic, and cultural engagements, including through continued high-level leadership exchanges. They also agreed to maintain close contact to follow up on ongoing initiatives and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, also spoke with the Foreign Minister of Iran, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi, and discussed current developments in Iran. He reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue and engagement. Both sides agreed to continue to maintain close contact.

DPM/FM Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Myanmar's Foreign Minister, H.E. U Than Swe. Both sides underscored the importance of resolving regional issues through peaceful dialogue and agreed to remain in close and constructive engagement on matters of mutual interest.

Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar spoke with Mr. Rosan Roeslani, Minister of Investment & Downstream Industry and Chief Executive Officer of Indonesia's Sovereign Wealth Fund (Danantara). Discussions focused on strengthening economic and investment partnership between Pakistan and Indonesia. Both sides reviewed potential avenues for investment collaboration and mutually beneficial projects.

***

(Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): (Zeeshan Yousafzai, Dunya TV): My question relates to the recent tensions in Iran. It appears that the United States is once again attempting to create unrest or carry out attacks in the region. What is Pakistan's position on this issue?

Spokesperson: Pakistan is closely following the developments related to the situation in Iran.

We attach great importance to Iran, both as a neighboring country an important member of the international community and global fraternity.

Pakistan hopes that peace and stability will prevail and reaffirms its support for all efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the situation.

As a neighbor, friend, and brotherly country, Pakistan wishes to see a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Iran.

The people of Pakistan share deep historical, cultural, and religious bonds with the people of Iran. Iran is a resilient nation that has demonstrated remarkable courage and resolve over the years in overcoming various challenges.

We understand that the recent protests in Iran were triggered by economic difficulties faced by ordinary citizens, which have been further exacerbated by international sanctions.

Pakistan sincerely hopes that the livelihood and financial support measures announced by the Iranian government for traders and the general public will help alleviate the hardships faced by the people. We extend our best wishes for the success of these efforts.

Pakistan remains confident that the Iranian nation will overcome these challenges and emerge stronger.

A stable and peaceful Iran, free from domestic unrest or political upheaval, is in Pakistan's interest.

We have full confidence in the wisdom of the Iranian people and leadership, rooted in their rich culture, ancient civilization, history, and resilience, to address all the challenges confronting Iran.

You may recall that we recently issued a travel advisory. We reiterate that Pakistani citizens who are considering travel should do so with due regard to the advisory and exercise extreme caution to ensure their safety and security. The contact details provided in the advisory should be used. Our Embassy in Tehran, led by Ambassador Mudassar Tipu and his team, is working diligently to ensure that the Pakistanis in Iran are well looked after.

(Azaz Syed, GEO News): In the last 24 hours, the U.S. Government has suspended the processing of immigration visas of 75 countries including Pakistan despite Pakistan's claims of having good relations with the U.S. and our Prime Minister having met with the President of the U.S. What is the background of this move and why is that so that India has not been included in the list while Pakistan is a part of it?

Spokesperson: We have seen the brief statements by the U.S. State Department on their social media handle about the internal review of processing immigrant visas only. We are in touch with the US. authorities to ascertain further details as it is an evolving news, which we are following.

We understand that this is an internal ongoing review process of U.S. immigration policies and system and we hope that the routine processing of immigrant visas will resume soon.

(Hussein Raza, PTV): How does Pakistan view the conviction of Asiya Andrabi Sahiba, along with her two associates by a Delhi court in sham trials?

Spokesperson: We have seen the news about the conviction. Pakistan strongly condemns the conviction of prominent Kashmiri political leader and activist, Asiya Andrabi Sahiba, along with her two associates, Fehmida Sofi Sahiba and Nahida Nasreen Sahiba, by a Delhi court in yet another fabricated case and after sham trials. This conviction underscores the continued misuse of draconian laws to silence legitimate political voices in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Asiya Andrabi Sahiba has spent several years in incarceration for peacefully advocating the fundamental rights and freedom of the Kashmiri people. Her conviction reflects a broader pattern of reprisals, intimidation, and coercion faced by the genuine Kashmiri leadership.

Similarly, the conviction of Fehmida Sofi Sahiba and Nahida Nasreen Sahiba further evidences the consistent and systematic invocation of draconian legal provisions to criminalize legitimate Kashmiri advocacy for human rights and fundamental freedoms, with the manifest objective of entrenching and perpetuating India's illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.

The targeting of Kashmiri women leaders is particularly deplorable, as they have endured prolonged detention for peaceful political expression. Asiya Andrabi Sahiba has already languished more than 08 years in prison. This treatment serves as a stark reminder of the suffering of a population subjected to systemic repression while asserting its inalienable right to self-determination. Pakistan remains steadfast in its diplomatic, political, and moral support for the Kashmiri people and their just struggle for the realization of their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in relevant United Nations resolutions.

(Muhammad Anas Ahsan Malik, Asia One News): Firstly, the Indian Army Chief has made a public statement, that appears to raise alarm and reinforce a confrontational posture towards Pakistan. How does the Foreign Office or Pakistan view these remarks in context of regional stability? Does Pakistan consider these statements merely a political tool, or do they reflect India's actual military intent? Secondly, we have recently seen engagements with Myanmar, as you have also mentioned in your opening statement. This appears to be a new phase of engagement, as there had been no ministerial- level contact between Pakistan and Myanmar in the last two years. When you say that the emphasis has been on conflict resolution in the region, could you please elaborate on this? Also, should this engagement with Myanmar be viewed in the context of the second phase of elections being held there recently?

Spokesperson: Regarding the first question, Pakistan strongly rejects the baseless allegations by the Indian Army Chief regarding the existence of any terror camps in Pakistan.

Our unparalleled sacrifices in blood and treasure for combating terrorism are internationally acknowledged and recognized which continue to contribute to peace not only in the region but beyond.

The continuing clichéd, habitual, delusional Indian rhetoric is a regrettable attempt to exploit the bogey of terrorism for narrow political gains. Such recurring allegations only discredit India more.

From the apprehended serving Indian naval officer commander Jadhav, with a proper service book, involved in espionage and terrorism against Pakistan to Indian facilitation and financing of terrorist proxies operating against Pakistan, including from Afghanistan as well as extraterritorial assassinations, Indian state sponsored terrorism against Pakistan is well documented.

India would be well advised to refrain from such baseless rhetoric and focus on the growing extremism and religiously motivated terrorism particularly state facilitated Islamophobia within which poses a threat not only to Indian society but its neighbors.

India should learn to observe civilized inter-state norms and refrain from such fabricated, irresponsible allegations that have the dangerous potential to further aggravate and vitiate tensions in an already volatile and destabilised environment.

With regards to Myanmar, Pakistan has longstanding diplomatic relations with the country. We have engaged with Myanmar both bilaterally and multilaterally. The recent telephonic conversation was a continuation of these engagements. There is no specific domestic development in Myanmar that necessitated the call. Our engagement is conducted on a bilateral basis and is focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

(Mateen Haider, GTV): The U.S. Special Envoy, Mr. Witkoff has stated in a tweet that the United States is now moving to the second phase of the Gaza Peace Plan, transitioning from ceasefire to demilitarization, reconstruction, and technocratic governance. I would like to seek your comments on this development. Related to this, we are witnessing daily violations of the ceasefire by Israel. According to a UN report, more than 100 Palestinian children have been killed since the ceasefire. In this context, how does the plan envisage a transition from ceasefire to demilitarization? Additionally, does Pakistan have any plans to become part of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) on Gaza?

Spokesperson: As you are aware, Pakistan has remained engaged in the Gaza Peace Process as part of the group of Arab-Islamic countries since the very beginning of the initiative in September 2025.

Pakistan supported the Gaza Peace Plan, and later the UN Security Council resolution endorsing the plan, to save the lives of innocent Palestinian people, maintain the ceasefire, ensure much needed large-scale humanitarian relief to the Palestinians, and to secure the full withdrawal of occupation forces from Gaza.

This recent announcement is a developing story. We take note of the announcement of the next phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and express the hope that these steps will lead to further stabilization of the situation, and upscaling of the humanitarian assistance and end to the suffering of the Palestinians.

We also hope that these peace efforts will lead to a credible, time-bound political process consistent with international legitimacy and relevant UN resolutions to establish an independent, sovereign, and contiguous State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. Regarding International Stabilization Force (ISF), my response remains the same as last week: no decision has been taken so far. As per my understanding, the mandate of the ISF has not been finalized yet.

(Tahir Khan, NNI): Last month, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister held a press conference in which he directed facilitation in the repatriation of Pakistani students from Afghanistan. According to the figures, more than 200 Pakistani students have been stranded on the Afghan side of the Torkham border. The Afghan Taliban authorities have asked the students to get their lists approved by the Embassy or Consulate in Jalalabad, after which they would allow them to cross the border. However, the students say that despite requesting appointments from the Embassy and the Consulate, they remain stranded. I contacted them today, and they requested that if they are unable to cross through the Torkham border, then a flight should be arranged for them, similar to the arrangements made for students in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Will Pakistan take any steps to evacuate these 200 students? Secondly, there have been reports regarding transfers and postings. Is Pakistan's Ambassador to Afghanistan being changed?

Spokesperson: Regarding the students, I have already provided a detailed response last week. I understand that the Embassy is actively working on the matter. I will check the latest figures of students and other Pakistani citizens who have formally approached the Embassy for assistance. It is important to determine that out of the 200 students you report, how many have actually contacted the Embassy seeking facilitation. I will verify these details and revert to you.

I can assure that our Embassy remains in contact with the Pakistani community, and assistance is extended to those who approach it. We will explore how these 200 students can be facilitated. It is currently the winter holidays, and many students may be seeking to return during this time. We will review the situation accordingly after receiving updated information from our Embassy.

Regarding the reports about the transfer of Pakistan's Ambassador to Afghanistan, this information is incorrect, no such decision has been taken so far.

(Carrie Davis, BBC): Will Pakistan be subject to the 25% tariff announced by President Trump for countries/entities that conduct trade/business with Iran? Will Pakistan be affected by this tariff?

Spokesperson: This is an evolving news. Pakistan's trade with other countries is conducted in accordance with international trade regulations and international law. We have taken note of the U.S. announcement and Pakistan remains engaged with the U.S. authorities on trade matter.

Pakistan has had very positive trade negotiations with the United States. We look forward to the successful culmination in reaching mutually beneficial trade agreements with the U.S. side.

(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD): Could you please provide details about the Crisis Management Unit established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Pakistani students stranded in Iran? How many students have been evacuated, how many are currently in contact with the Embassy, and what are the details regarding flights?

(Syeda Qurat ul Ain, Independent Urdu): Exactly how many Pakistanis are currently in Iran, and out of these, how many have returned so far, including the number of students? Apart from students, can you also share the figures you mentioned the day before yesterday?

Spokesperson: We have already shared the relevant figures. The students whose figures were provided the day before yesterday have arrived in Gwadar. The local civil administration in adjoining areas of Balochistan has confirmed their safety and well-being. The 54 students who arrived on Wednesday, along with a few dozen others who returned in the preceding days, have safely arrived in Pakistan and are in good condition.

As of this morning, I believe the figures haven't changed significantly. Over the past two to three days, the situation in Iran has somewhat improved, and the initial figure of returnees has since declined.

I will check the latest figures for today and revert to you.

(Allah Noor, Mashriq TV): As the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been closed for several days, DG ISPR has stated that Pakistan is not

incurring losses from the closure and is, in fact, gaining. However, the President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce has stated that our country is suffering significant losses. Is Pakistan facing losses or gains as a result of the border closure? Similarly, with regards to Pakistan - Afghanistan relations, is there any possibility of reconciliation, or is Pakistan planning to suspend diplomatic relations with Afghanistan?

(Zafar Mehmood Malik, Mainichi Japanese): Recently, Afghan Minister Anas Haqqani, who was part of a delegation, reportedly recited a Pashto poem, the Urdu translation of which is: "Soon you will see troops in Jhelum; for now, we are dealing with you at Attock, and "when discussions fail, arms must be used." Do you have any response to this statement?

Spokesperson: Regarding the first question on gains or losses from border closure, this is all relative and subjective. There is an economic dimension as well as a security dimension. From a trade perspective, some traders have indeed suffered losses due to border closure, and therefore, in economic terms, there has certainly been some deficit. However, from a security standpoint, if the border closure has helped stop incursions from the Afghan side and prevented attacks on border posts, it represents a gain. You may recall that in October there were attacks on border posts, some of which were destroyed, resulting in the loss of Pakistani border guards, security personnel, and civilians. If the closure of gates has prevented such attacks and saved lives, then that is a significant security gain. Therefore, the assessment of gains and losses must be viewed in relative terms.

Regarding broader relations with Afghanistan, we hope that these relations will improve. As I have stated in previous press briefings, the only outstanding issue between the two countries is terrorism emanating from Afghan soil. If this issue is addressed, there is significant potential for cooperation and improved relations. Our demand-that Afghan territory should not be used for terrorist attacks inside Pakistan-is genuine, legitimate, consistent with international law, and internationally acceptable. We hope that this reasonable demand will be heeded by the authorities in Kabul, leading to peace and improved relations between the two countries.

As for the poem or verse attributed to Mr. Anas Haqqani, I have not seen it myself and cannot confirm its attribution to him. Therefore, I am not in a position to comment on it. My earlier remark regarding poetry was made in a lighter vein, suggesting that perhaps he had ventured into Urdu poetry.

If you recall, Allama Iqbal expressed many positive sentiments about Afghanistan, which we also endorse. As he said:

"Qabail hon millat ki wahdat mein gum, ke ho naam Afghanion ka buland."

Yes, we say

"Key ho naam Afghanion ka buland"

We, too, wish to see the Afghan people prosper.

(Asghar Ali Mubarak, The Daily Mail International): Sir, India has one again given controversial remarks on Azad Kashmir, Indian Illegally Occupied Kashmir stating it as inseparable (Atoot Ang) part of India and also made controversial remarks on China Pakistan Economic Corridor in its last briefing. What are your comments?

Spokesperson: We reject these assertions. India is the serial violator of the UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir. It has no locus standi to comment on a bilateral and an important international project between Pakistan and China, focused on development and regional connectivity. India has no locus standi to comment on that.

(Czechangez Khan Jadoon, Daily Payam-e-Khayber): There were reports last night that Iran has stated that if its neighbours' air bases (the Gulf states) were used for attack on Iran then those airbases will also be targeted by Iran. Did Pakistan also receive such a message?

Spokesperson: No, not to my knowledge.

(Abdullah Momand, Dawn News): US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff for any country doing business with Iran. Pakistan is also going to be affected due to the latest move of Donald Trump. Pakistan's bilateral trade is about $3 billion with Iran. At the same time, US remains a main export market of Pakistan, as well as a key player in the external ties. So how Islamabad is seeing this update? Because as the Trump announced 25% tariff with any country doing business with Iran, is Islamabad cool fitted on this and we have an ultimate strategy? Thank you.

Spokesperson: I have responded to this question. We hope to have very smooth trade relations with the US. Our trade talks with the US proceeded smoothly. We reached at a very amicable decision, and we hope to continue on it. As regards our trade with Iran, it follows international trade regulations and relevant international law, governing these trades. So, we will continue to engage with both the US and Iran on our trade relations.

(Imran Waseem, Aik News): Whether it is the issue of Iran-US relations, conflict between Saudi Arabia and the UAE on Yemen issue, or is it the Gaza issue, DPM/FM Ishaq Dar engages in telephonic conversations to resolve these issues sometimes with Iranian FM Araghchi, with Saudi Arabia or with UAE. But last night when US suspended immigration process for Pakistanis, Ishaq Dar did not had as quick a telephonic conversation as when dealing with others issues. What is the reason behind it as Pakistan is already affected from it.

Spokesperson: I don't think it is fair to say that communication process with the US is slow. This development took place last night. We have a time difference of 10 to 12 hours with the US. So, we will follow this development too. I don't think that you should categorize the contacts or coordination between our Foreign Minister/Deputy Prime Minister with his counterparts as slow or fast. I think overall coordination is efficient. There's a telephone call almost every day, and as I list these in my weekly briefings. So, DPM/FM will continue interactions on the same trajectory with all his counterparts, including with the US.

(Azaz Syed, Geo News): So, two small questions. One, what is assessment of Pakistan, whether there will be a regime change in Iran. What is our assessment? And have we prepared for that case or otherwise?

And second, we saw reports when Pakistani Field Marshal met with the American President and following media reports regarding that Pakistan was playing some kind of mediatory role in Iran. American President had also given a hint in one of his statements. Are we still playing some role between America and Iran to diffuse the situation?

Spokesperson: Regarding your question about the assessment, we will not venture into giving our prognosis on Iran. But what I can tell you, as I said in my opening remarks; we remain confident that Iran, with its sagacity, wisdom, its ancient civilization, its resilience over the years, met all these challenges in the past. It can overcome this challenge too. We wish the Iranian people well. As regards the role of Pakistan in US - Iran relations: we had a very positive and principled position between Iran and its partners during the nuclear issue talks that took place early last year, which culminated towards September when the UN Security Council discussed these issues. This position, which was very principled, enabled us to play the role of bridge builder and facilitator for channels of communication. In those days, our Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held numerous telephone conversations with Secretary of State Mr. Marco Rubio and a number of telephone conversations with Foreign Minister Mr. Abbas Araghchi. So yes, in the context of those nuclear talks, we did play a role. We are willing to play such role now. If you recall, for example, in the 80s and the 90s, Pakistan Embassy in Washington D.C. was actually assigned as the Iran focal point for diplomatic engagement with the US. So yes, we have good relations with both Tehran and Washington. We will continue to maintain those relations, and those relations do enable us to play a positive role in Iran - US relationship.

(Muhammad Anas Ahsan Malik, Asia One News): Thank you so much, Spokesperson. Following up on Iran, last year, when we saw the American attack on Iran from this very podium, your predecessor was very categorical in the follow up briefing on the 26th of June that Pakistan's airspace was not used, and Pakistan will not allow its airspace to be used by any country against any of its neighbours and that was a policy statement. Given the recent, hostilities or statements that we've been seeing, particularly in context of Iran, does the policy state's position remain the same that Pakistan will not allow its territory or its airspace to be used by any of its neighbors, or is there a change?

Spokesperson: Policy statement remains the same. Ditto

(Syeda Qurat ul Ain, Independent Urdu): It's about last week, or maybe 10 days ago, Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave the statement regarding Saudi - Pak JF-17 Thunder deal. So, has it been finalized? Or what has been done, because the Information Minister asked us to contact you, and you would have the exact information.

Spokesperson: I can confirm that these exchanges with different countries on particular platforms take place, particularly with reference to JF-17 Thunder. These talks are taking place. The exact status of these discussions can be checked from Ministry of Defense. We, from this platform, will announce anything when we receive confirmation with respect to their finalization. So, once a deal is finalized, we would be announcing it.

(Zahid Farooq Malik, Daily Metro Watch): Sir, Abraham Accords is talk of the town nowadays. Is it about recognition of Israel only or expansion of its boundaries is to be recognized Because it is being said that due to Abraham Accord all these tensions and issues are arising in the Middle East?

Pakistan just signed a deal with Libya. Pakistan recognizes which faction of Libya and with which faction deal was signed?

Spokesperson: About Abraham Accord - the spirit as I understand Abraham (PBUH) being the common legacy and the forefather to the three great revealed religions, including Judaism is invoked to give a certain context. Our position with respect to it, is that there are certain benchmarks that have to be achieved for Pakistan, which is the creation of a viable contiguous state of Palestine, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif Jerusalem as its capital - and then see how this State of Palestine has relationship with other countries, including potentially Israel. So that is our benchmark. We are not aware, or not concerned about who does or who does not join the Abraham Accord. We view it in a very legal sense of the State of Palestine that we aspire - the contours of that State of Palestine. I have stated now partially and in my previous statements in detail.

As regards Libya, Pakistan has age old relations with Libya. Our people have worked there. Any deal that we make will be for the people of Libya and for the betterment of the people of Libya. We do not interfere in their internal affairs, but we remain supportive of a peaceful, united, prosperous Libya.

(Mateen Haider, GTV): Mr. Spokesperson. Follow up to what Miss Annie Shirazi asked you regarding Saudi Arabia - Pakistan Defense Cooperation. So I would like to seek more information if you have that, what else other than JF-17 Thunder Pakistan is providing to Saudi Arabia? So is there some more defense equipment, some strategic defense cooperation is also part of that defense deal. If so, please share details. Thank you.

Spokesperson: About specific platforms and system, I will refer you to Ministry of Defense. As regards the defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia,

Ministry of Foreign Affairs gets involved in a defense deal on political side, whether we should have defense deals with country A, country B or country C. As regards Saudi Arabia, it is our long trusted partner, and we have a defense SMDA with Saudi Arabia. So, our political clearance (from MoFA) for any deal on Saudi Arabia would be there. Regarding a particular platform, and regarding the status of that deal, I would refer you again to the Ministry of Defense.

(Abdul Hadi Mayar, The Pakistan Observer): Thank you, Spokesperson. Further to the question regarding US visa restrictions and countries, including Pakistan. Last night, I spotted pro-India handle describing it a blow to Pakistan's reinvigorated relations with the United States. How would you respond to that?

Spokesperson: Sir, please do not get me engaged to comment on social media's pro-India handles.

(Muhammad Saleh Zafir, The News): India has once again questioned the agreement between Pakistan and China of 1963 and Indian authorities have claimed that they would take back an important valley in the region of Ladakh. I need your comments.

Spokesperson: India has no locus standi to comment on our bilateral agreements with China. India's comments have been answered by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The crux of the issue is the Illegal Indian occupation of the portion of the erstwhile territory of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, including Indian occupied Ladakh. India has not allowed the promised plebiscite to determine the will and the wishes of the people to express their opinion. So India's illegal occupation of the part of Jammu and Kashmir, including the Occupied Ladakh is the real problem. This needs to be addressed. India needs to understand that it has to abide by all UN resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir, which are also applicable to the Indian occupied Ladakh.

(Tahir Khan, NNI): The Afghan regime sent its Charge d' Affairs to New Delhi few days ago, then Foreign Minister in October and then Health Minister visited New Delhi. India has already opened its Embassy and they will nominate Ambassador soon. You say that it is Pakistan's policy that it will not interfere in bilateral relations of two countries. But it is a fact, when relations improve between Afghanistan and India, then sensitivity is observed here. Pakistan is affected by Afghanistan. Our relations with Afghanistan deteriorated. Where Pakistan's relations stand with Afghanistan and if the relations deteriorated at the current pace then where does Pakistan stand with its relations in Afghanistan?

Spokesperson: I have answered this question, and you have yourself said, relationship between India and Afghanistan is a matter between two countries. They can develop their diplomatic relations. We do not necessarily see these relations in a zero-sum game - as long as the Indian support for terrorist elements inside Afghanistan directed against Pakistan is not there. This is our position. Pakistan's relations with Afghanistan, I have also elaborated. We continue to hope for positive messaging; positive signaling in form of written, verifiable assurances, and that demand with Kabul stands on the table.

(Khawaja Nayyar Iqbal, Media Today): Thank you, Spokesperson. In 2025, President Trump tried to stop military conflicts around the world. How do you see President Trump's actions in 2026? Do you see this as the year of peace?

Spokesperson: Pakistan is hopeful, sees a positive future, and we hope that 2026 will be a peaceful year for the world.

(Anwer Abbas, 24 News HD): Indian PM will visit Germany soon and MoUs and deals will be signed on multiple cooperation. One of such deals is Defence Agreement where Germany will provide military hardware to India and according to DW report, talks on this deal is completed. How Pakistan see this development?

Spokesperson: When such development takes place, we will reply.

***