Pakistan has expressed deep concern over the systematic targeting of mosques and shrines in India, urging the Indian government to protect the religious freedoms and dignity of its Muslim population.
Addressing a weekly news briefing on Thursday, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch termed the attacks on religious sites in India as “worrisome” and called on the Indian authorities to ensure the safety of all religious places.
On global issues, Pakistan welcomed the recent UN resolution calling for an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian cause and expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine.
The Foreign Office also voiced concern over the humanitarian situation in Syria. Regarding the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch clarified that the Foreign Office would act in accordance with court orders and stated she was unaware of any letter from the prime minister concerning the matter.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with foreign diplomats to assure them of the security of ambassadors and diplomatic missions in Pakistan. He briefed them on Islamabad’s security situation and pledged to safeguard the safety of all foreigners residing in the country.
The spokesperson highlighted ongoing discussions between Pakistan and Afghanistan on various issues, including terrorism. The Pakistani ambassador to Afghanistan held talks with Afghan authorities to address shared security concerns.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch also confirmed that the statistics of Pakistani prisoners abroad keep changing. Efforts to repatriate Pakistani prisoners detained in Gulf countries and assured that bilateral discussions are underway to improve relations with Bangladesh. She mentioned a recent meeting between the Pakistan high commissioner to Bangladesh and Khaleda Zia, during which strengthening bilateral ties was a key topic.
The spokesperson noted that journalist Matiullah Jan was produced in Pakistani courts that have the capacity to provide relief to citizens.
