Pakistan Addresses Domestic and International Concerns

Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, has categorically said that the ban on any political party is Pakistan’s internal affair. She stated this while reacting to the US statement that showed deep concern over recent political developments in Pakistan. Baloch has said that the recent decisions by Pakistani courts, including the Supreme Court, manifest the strength of Pakistan’s legal and judicial system. She stated that the comments in this regard by any foreign country were uncalled for and amounted to intolerable intervention in the internal affairs of Pakistan.

Tensions with Afghanistan Over Cross-Border Terrorism

Pakistan has communicated its serious concerns to the Afghan authorities regarding the terrorist attack at the Bannu cantonment on July 15. The Pakistani government expressed alarm over the continued use of Afghan territory by militant groups like the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan for attacks that kill people inside Pakistan. Baloch, however, pointed out that despite repeated calls to this effect, these terror groups in the presence within the Afghanistan jurisdiction continue to pose a serious threat to regional peace and security.

Strong Demand for Action Against Militant Groups

The Foreign Office strongly urged the interim Afghan government to take immediate and practical action against the perpetrators of the July 15 attack. Pakistan now waits for concrete steps on the part of the Afghan authorities to disarm TTP and Gul Bahadur Group and hand over their leadership to the Pakistani authorities. He added that such attacks undermined bilateral relations and regional stability, hence making it incumbent upon Afghanistan to prevent any such incidents in the future.

Deportation of Foreigners

She also explained Pakistan’s stance regarding the deportation of foreigners violating the latter’s immigration laws. More than 44,000 Afghan nationals, Baloch revealed, are going to be deported to third countries from within Pakistan. When asked about Malala Yousafzai’s statement regarding this issue, Baloch suggested that Yousafzai must use her influence to ask these countries to hasten the process.

Condemnation of Muscat Terror Attack

It strongly condemned the recent terror attack on Imambargah Ali bin Abu Talib in Muscat, resulting in six deaths, four of them Pakistani nationals. The secretary condemned the attack on the peaceful civilians in the mosque during the holy month of Muharram, adding that this act is reprehensible and inhumane, and under no circumstances whatsoever can such acts of terrorism be condoned.

The situation in Bangladesh Being Monitored

Developments in Bangladesh, especially where the safety of Pakistani students is concerned, amidst ongoing protests, are being closely followed by the Foreign Office. Baloch assured that the Pakistani High Commission keeps constant contact with students and Bangladeshi authorities. Advisories were issued; the High Commission assisted students needing safe lodging. After that, continuous assessment had been done regarding whether further action would be required, including repatriation.

Upcoming Diplomatic Visit from Turkmenistan

Baloch announced an upcoming visit by Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister, Rashid Meredov, between 22 to 24 July. During this visit, Meredov will engage in extensive talks with the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan, Ishaq Dar, which will manifest relentless diplomatic engagement between the two nations.