Speaking at the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andarabi emphasized that the government remains unaware of such discussions, which had been cited in various media reports.
Addressing the Afghanistan aid convoy, Andarabi confirmed that Pakistan has decided to send humanitarian assistance in response to a United Nations request but added that he was unaware of the convoy’s current status or departure.
On the Pakistan Afghanistan border, Andarabi made it clear that the border will remain sealed until Kabul provides credible assurances that terrorists will not enter Pakistan from Afghan soil.
He stressed that the decision is strictly a security measure and not a reflection of any hostility toward Afghan citizens, whom he referred to as our brothers and sisters.
Andarabi elaborated that the threat is not limited to the Tehreek e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or the Tehreek e Taliban Afghanistan (TTA).
Several Afghan nationals have also been involved in serious crimes inside Pakistan, making border vigilance a necessity. Pakistan, he noted, has always supported humanitarian corridors for Afghan citizens, especially during crises, but the border policy now hinges on real cooperation from Afghan authorities.
Regarding 38 Pakistanis stranded in Myanmar, the spokesperson confirmed that efforts are ongoing for their safe repatriation, with Pakistan’s missions in Thailand and Myanmar actively coordinating with local governments.
Andarabi also touched upon broader foreign affairs, including Pakistan’s current lack of diplomatic ties with Israel and the 33rd anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition, which he described as a matter of deep concern for the global community.
He stressed that protecting religious heritage sites is a shared responsibility and that violations must be addressed transparently.
Turning to international developments, Andarabi commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, stating that Pakistan respects the sovereign right of nations to pursue their national interests and has no official stance on potential India Russia defence deals.
He also expressed concern over the treatment of Muslims in India, noting that discriminatory policies have fostered extremism.
In response to questions about a possible high level visit by Turkey’s delegation to Islamabad, Andarabi suggested that delays may be due to scheduling issues or lack of cooperation from the Afghan side.
He reiterated that the border closure is purely a security measure, adding, ‘We cannot allow our citizens to become victims of terrorism again.’
