Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch's weekly media briefing said that India is the host of the World Cup and ensuring security is also the responsibility of the Indian state.
“It is also India's responsibility to provide a favorable environment for the Pakistani cricket team,” the spokesperson said.
“The case against Zainab Abbas on the unnecessary tweet is not a valid action,” spokesperson commented on the recent safe exit of sports presenter Zainab Abbas from India that sparked outraged India did not welcome the analyst over her old anti-India tweets.
“Zainab Abbas is being dragged in the unjustified case,” the FO spokesman added.
“Spokesperson is in touch with India to issue visas to Pakistani journalists and fans visas,” adding that, she demanded the issuance of visas from India soon.
Read more: Pakistani presenter Zainab Abbas leaves India over 'safety concerns'
While fulfilling her role of promoting "cultural similarities" between Pakistan and India, Zainab Abbas –acclaimed sports presenter— has reportedly left India citing 'safety concerns', following allegations of making ‘anti-hindu’ statements on social media.
According to sources, Zainab Abbas was recently in India to cover the ICC World Cup. However, her stay took an unexpected turn when an Indian lawyer filed a complaint against her with accusations of making derogatory remarks on social media platforms against India and the Hindu religion.
Zainab Abbas has categorically denied the allegations and maintains that she has been unjustly targeted.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has also been drawn into the controversy, as some sources suggest that the organization was unable to prevent Zainab's deportation due to what they perceive as “Indian propaganda”.
Pakistani sports presenter Zainab Abbas has safely exited India over "safety concerns"
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) October 9, 2023
She is currently in Dubai; allegations involve #cybercrime and old anti-India tweets #ICCWorldCup2023 #IndiaPakistan #WorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/DRWKMZs0qS
Pakistan reiterates support for Palestine
Foreign Office spokesman said that Pakistan is a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause and said federal cabinet has also condemned the Israeli aggression.
“Pakistan is trying to convene a special meeting of the OIC,” he added.
FO refrains from commenting on cypher case
FO spokesperson refrained from commenting on the question regarding the cipher case. She said the matter is in the court and it is related to national security.
MOFA spokeswoman also expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of Pakistan on the terrible earthquake in Afghanistan.
“Pakistan regrets the deaths and losses in Afghanistan and assures solidarity and cooperation with neighbouring countries,” she added.
Illegal Afghan refugees
She said Pakistan will take action against illegal Afghan residents from November 1.
“Illegal immigrants will be prosecuted under immigration and state laws. However, we will welcome the Afghan government's efforts to take action against banned and terrorist organizations.”
