ISLAMABAD: Both Pakistan and Ukraine denied the existence of an arms supply deal between them amid the backdrop of the Russian invasion. The visiting Ukrainian foreign minister expressed his desire for Islamabad to support his country, but no such agreement was confirmed.
The two foreign ministers carried out a joint press conference in Islamabad. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba confirmed that there are no intergovernmental arrangements between Pakistan and Ukraine regarding arms supply.
Kuleba’s visit marks the first time a Ukrainian foreign minister has visited the country since they established bilateral ties in 1993.
The Ukrainian Foreign Minister’s visit to Pakistan coincides with a period of warm relations between Pakistan and Russia. Pakistan recently received its first shipment of oil from Moscow.
Despite a neutral public stance, there have been reports suggesting that Pakistan could be involved in supplying arms to Ukraine. However, Bilawal firmly refuted such claims and emphasized that Pakistan is strictly adhering to its policy of non-partisanship.
Bilawal expressed regret over certain media outlets attempting to publish baseless reports regarding military supplies to Ukraine.
The Ukrainian foreign minister expressed his desire for Pakistan to stand with Ukraine in a manner that deems suitable for itself. He acknowledged that Pakistan already supports Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He emphasized that it is up to the Pakistani government to decide the appropriate forums and support Ukraine.
In a meticulously crafted statement, Foreign Minister Bilawal conveyed Pakistan’s profound concerns regarding the loss of lives in Ukraine.
During the discussions with the foreign minister of Ukraine, Bilawal expressed his heartfelt distress over the ongoing situation. He extended condolences for the tragic loss of lives and extensive human suffering.
Furthermore, Bilawal mentioned Pakistan’s decision to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine, despite facing its own economic challenges. This demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to providing assistance and support during these difficult times.
During the meeting, Bilawal emphasized the significance of peaceful resolution through dialogue and engagement. Pakistan stands ready to support peace initiatives that can bring stability to the region.
Moreover, the Pakistani side had to request the lone Russian journalist to leave, as reportedly requested by the Ukrainian side.
Views on Russia’s Withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative
The Ukrainian foreign minister expressed regret over Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea grain initiative, which had allowed the export of Ukrainian grains. He warned that the absence of a corridor for grain supplies could lead to skyrocketing food prices in the international market and requested Pakistan’s assistance in reviving the grain export deal.
Bilawal also voiced concerns and pledged to reach out to the UN Secretary-General, as well as his Turkish and Russian counterparts, to advocate for the restoration of grain supplies from Ukraine.
