Islamabad, August 17, 2024, The Europe Today: The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan has firmly denied any ongoing discussions with India regarding the resumption of bilateral trade, according to FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch. During a weekly press briefing in Islamabad on Friday, Baloch reiterated that Pakistan had suspended trade with India following the latter’s “illegal and unilateral” actions in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) in 2019.
Baloch emphasized that Pakistan’s stance remains unchanged since the Indian government’s decision on August 5, 2019, to abrogate Article 370 of its constitution, effectively annexing IIOJK. “This situation remains intact,” she stated, underscoring Pakistan’s ongoing refusal to engage in trade under the current circumstances.
The spokesperson also condemned the recent killing of four Kashmiri youths by Indian forces in Doda district, describing the incident as another example of India’s oppressive policies in the region. Baloch called on the international community to take immediate and decisive action to hold India accountable for what she termed “egregious human rights violations” in IIOJK and to protect the rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people.
Urges Restraint on Border Violations with Afghanistan
Addressing rising tensions on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Baloch urged the interim Afghan government to exercise restraint and avoid unprovoked actions against Pakistani territory. Her comments followed a recent clash between border forces near the Torkham crossing, which resulted in the closure of the border.
Baloch confirmed that Pakistani forces had responded appropriately in self-defense after Afghan forces opened fire on August 12. She emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to resolve any misunderstandings through established diplomatic channels, while also highlighting the multifaceted nature of the relationship between the two countries.
“We urge the Afghan authorities to exercise restraint and avoid unprovoked acts against the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. They must understand that Pakistani forces will always defend their territory,” Baloch asserted.
Denies Allegations of Interference in Bangladesh’s Internal Affairs
The FO spokesperson also addressed allegations regarding Pakistan’s involvement in the ouster of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid, strongly rejecting them as baseless. Baloch affirmed Pakistan’s belief in the sovereignty of Bangladesh and its people’s capacity to determine their future.
Condemns Israeli Actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque
Baloch further condemned the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by extremist settlers, led by Israeli authorities, describing it as a violation of international law and the Geneva Convention. She called upon the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to take immediate action to protect the sanctity of holy sites in Jerusalem and to ensure the freedom of worship for Palestinians.
This comprehensive briefing highlights Pakistan’s firm stance on key regional issues and its calls for international intervention in protecting human rights and maintaining peace in the region.
