ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday welcomed the United States’ recognition of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as a serious threat to global peace and security.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan at a weekly news briefing in Islamabad on Thursday said there is no hiatus in Pakistan-US cooperation on counterterrorism, and the collaboration will continue in the future.
The spokesperson also mentioned that Special Assistant to Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi is currently visiting the US, where he has met with the Chairman of the US Congressional Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on South Asia and Central Asia, and the Co-chair of the Pakistan Caucus.
“During the talks, discussions focused on Pakistan-US bilateral cooperation and economic relations,” he said. “The special assistant briefed the US leadership on government policy, especially the economic priorities.”
Khan said that promoting bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of economy, trade and investment, are among the top priorities of the government.
“Regional and international issues were also discussed during these meetings,” he added.
US export restrictions
Regarding the recent imposition of export restrictions by the US against Pakistan’s commercial entities, the spokesperson noted that such biased and politically motivated actions are counterproductive to the objectives of global export controls and obstruct legitimate access to technology for socio-economic development.
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Controversial bill in US House of Representatives
When asked about a bill introduced in the US House of Representatives concerning Pakistan, the spokesperson clarified that it was an initiative of a single individual legislator.
However, he stated that Pakistan believes the timing and context of the bill do not align with the current positive trajectory of Pakistan-US relations, which are based on mutual respect, understanding, and non-interference in each other’s affairs.
The spokesperson expressed hope that the US Congress would continue its supportive role in strengthening Pakistan-US ties and focus on areas of mutual collaboration that benefit both nations.
He reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to the rule of law, the protection of human rights, and freedom of expression, viewing democracy as a key driver of progress and prosperity.
Indian atrocities in Kashmir
He also voiced concerns over the scores of raids conducted by Indian authorities on residences belonging to members of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
He stated that the purpose of these raids was to suppress dissent and intimidate the local population. He called on Indian authorities to halt these repressive actions and to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people, including their right to self-determination.
Russia-Ukraine ceasefire
The spokesperson also welcomed the recently agreed limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, which prohibits attacks on energy infrastructure and ensures safe navigation in the Black Sea.
He commended the active engagement and leadership of the US administration in facilitating the agreement between Russia and Ukraine. He expressed optimism that the momentum created by these initial steps would ultimately lead to a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire.
He noted that Pakistan maintains good relations with both countries and consistently advocates for dialogue.
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Commenting on the issue of Pakistani journalists allegedly visiting Israel, Khan reiterated that Pakistani passport holders are legally barred from travelling to Israel. “There has been no change in Pakistan’s policy,” he added, clarifying that any such visits were made by dual nationals.
Regarding recent diplomatic engagements, Khan stated that Sadiq Khan’s visit to Afghanistan involved high-level discussions on cross-border matters, including railway connections and border infrastructure.
Pakistan rejects UN experts’ criticism
Shafqat Ali Khan rejected a statement issued by certain United Nations (UN) human rights experts, calling it “selective and unverified.”
While criticising the comments, he said that they lacked balance and failed to acknowledge the full context of the security situation in the country.
“We have taken note of the press release issued by certain UN experts, which appears to be based on selective and unverified media reports,” said Ambassador Khan.
“It is imperative that public statements of this nature adhere to principles of objectivity, avoid selective criticism, reflect factual accuracy, and acknowledge the full context of the situation.”
The spokesperson expressed concern over the lack of proportionality in the remarks made by UN experts, accusing them of minimising civilian casualties caused by terrorist attacks while overlooking the crimes committed by miscreants who disrupt public services and create insecurity.
Ambassador Khan stated that the individuals involved were not simply protesters, but were actively engaging in lawlessness and violence, frequently in collaboration with terrorists.
He highlighted a recent incident in Quetta, where violent demonstrators stormed the District Hospital and forcibly took the bodies of five terrorists killed during the Jaffar Express hostage rescue operation.
He further stressed that international human rights law does not allow individuals or groups to misuse rights to infringe upon the security and safety of others.
“The right of sovereign states to take lawful and necessary action to maintain public order and ensure the safety of their citizens is firmly upheld by international law,” he stated.
Ambassador Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its citizens, particularly in regions affected by terrorism.
