ISLAMABAD: During her weekly press briefing, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized that there is no ongoing back-channel diplomacy between Pakistan and India to normalize bilateral trade.
Mumtaz Baloch pointed out the escalating provocative statements from Indian leaders regarding the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which Pakistan views as driven by hyper-nationalism and posing threats to regional peace. She urged Indian politicians to refrain from dragging Pakistan into their electoral discourse, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue.
Despite Indian assertions, Mumtaz Baloch highlighted that IIOJK remains an internationally recognized disputed territory, subject to the UN Security Council’s resolutions for determination through a free plebiscite. She advised India to implement these resolutions instead of indulging in grandeur illusions, stressing the importance of respecting the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Furthermore, Baloch condemned the ongoing discrimination against Muslims and minorities in India, calling for greater protection of their rights and freedoms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming engagements were also discussed. He is scheduled to attend a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh on April 28-29, accompanied by Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar. Their participation aims to highlight Pakistan’s priorities in global health, inclusive growth, and regional collaboration.
Additionally, Shehbaz will attend the 15th session of the Islamic Summit Conference in Banjul, Gambia, on May 4-5, addressing pressing issues such as the situation in Gaza, Islamophobia, and terrorism, besides holding bilateral meetings with leaders from the Muslim world.
The recent visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi focused on enhancing economic and cultural cooperation between Iran and Pakistan, expediting negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement, and addressing mutual concerns regarding prisoners.
Baloch also highlighted discussions on the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project, emphasizing the importance of meeting Pakistan’s energy needs through various avenues while engaging with the US on trade with Iran.
Moreover, a delegation from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) visited Pakistan to accelerate projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), underscoring the significance of bilateral cooperation for regional development.
In light of the situation in Gaza, Baloch called for an investigation into Israeli war crimes, an immediate ceasefire, a lifting of the siege, and access to humanitarian aid for the affected population.
Regarding the US Country Report on Human Rights Practices, Baloch reiterated Pakistan’s rejection due to its flawed methodology, emphasizing the need for global objective and unbiased assessments of human rights situations.
I am an accomplished graduate of Strategic Studies, driven by a fervent dedication to comprehending global affairs and devising impactful strategies. Equipped with a comprehensive skill set encompassing research, critical thinking, and persuasive communication, I possess a distinctive viewpoint and an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive decision-making processes. As a versatile individual, I excel in collaborating with diverse groups in various settings, leveraging my strong interpersonal abilities to adapt seamlessly to new environments and surmount any challenges that arise. With a passion for contributing to strategic initiatives, I am eager to leverage my expertise and drive to effect positive change within the field.
