LAHORE MIRROR — Pakistan reiterated its unwavering stance on engaging in talks with individuals or groups involved in terrorist activities within the country.
Addressing a weekly press briefing at the Foreign Office (FO), the FO spokesperson firmly stated that dialogues with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) would not be entertained in the future. This response came after the Afghan Taliban suggested holding talks with the TTP.
The spokesperson clarified that Pakistan will not negotiate with groups responsible for the killing of Pakistani civilians and law enforcement personnel and those who do not recognize Pakistan’s Constitution. “This position has been communicated clearly to those proposing such talks,” she added.
Highlighting their differing perspectives on the situation in Afghanistan, the Foreign Office spokesperson, in a separate interview with a British media outlet, emphasized that Pakistan’s stance varies from that of the Afghan foreign ministry.
Civil War in India’s Manipur
Shifting attention to the civil war in India’s Manipur region, Pakistan expressed concerns about the safety and security of minorities and their places of worship in India. They called on the Indian government to ensure the protection of minorities in the region.
Stance on Black Sea Grain Initiative
Regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), Pakistan is actively working to find a resolution and has maintained a neutral position in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Foreign Minister (FM) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had a conversation with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, discussing Pakistan’s perspective on the stalled BSGI and its potential implications for global food inflation. They also explored ways to revive the initiative through constructive dialogue, accommodating the concerns of all parties.
Strategy To Combat Islamophobia
Bilawal Bhutto also addressed the issue of recurring acts of desecration of the Holy Quran and urged the UN to develop a comprehensive strategy to combat Islamophobia.
Pakistan condemned the desecration of Holy Quran in Denmark, summoning a senior Danish diplomat to protest against the condemnable incident. The country demanded appropriate measures to stop such acts of hatred and incitement, emphasizing that they insult Muslims worldwide and fuel tensions between communities and nations.
The Foreign Office spokesperson stressed that these actions do not fall under freedom of expression and are offensive and irresponsible, aligning with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ statement that speech and acts inciting religious hatred against Muslims are unacceptable.
