In a recent press briefing, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office, addressed a range of significant issues, including the Iranian statement on the tribal conflict in Parachinar, the situation involving Pakistani citizens abroad, and matters concerning the Pak-Afghan border. Her remarks sought to clarify Pakistan’s stance on these matters and emphasize the country’s diplomatic priorities.
The focus of the briefing was the Iranian statement regarding the ongoing tribal conflict in Parachinar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Baloch deemed the Iranian commentary unnecessary, asserting that it did not accurately reflect the situation. “The killing of any human being is intolerable,” she stated. “Pakistan is committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens. However, the Iranian statement on Parachinar does not cover the full situation. The Ministry of Home Affairs is actively working on it.”
The conflict in Parachinar, which has seen severe violence between rival tribes, resulted in significant casualties and unrest. Baloch’s response highlighted Pakistan’s position on managing internal issues without external interference, emphasizing that the Iranian comments did not contribute constructively to the resolution of the situation.
Baloch also touched upon the role of Pakistani citizens in the Middle East. She underscored that many Pakistanis living and working in Middle Eastern countries are law-abiding and contribute positively to their host societies. “Most of our citizens are recognized and appreciated for their role in the development of these societies,” she said. The Foreign Office, according to Baloch, remains committed to addressing any issues involving Pakistani nationals abroad and will liaise with relevant governments when necessary.
In response to a query regarding a recent incident in Frankfurt, Germany, Baloch confirmed ongoing communication with the German government. “We are in contact with the German authorities about the incident and have requested action against those responsible,” she said. This response underscores Pakistan’s commitment to addressing international concerns involving its citizens.
The Foreign Office spokesperson also addressed questions about the movement of cargo vehicles on the Pak-Afghan border. Baloch emphasized the importance of a streamlined document regime for facilitating border movement. “One document regime is crucial for the smooth movement of people and goods on the Pak-Afghan border,” she stated, reflecting Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to improve cross-border logistics and trade.
In addition to these issues, Baloch touched on broader diplomatic concerns, including Pakistan’s position on the situation in Occupied Kashmir. She criticized the Indian media and officials for their obsession with Pakistan, suggesting that Pakistan has consistently raised concerns about changes in the region since August 5, 2019. Baloch’s comments reflect ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir and the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
Regarding recent developments involving the Palestinian resistance organization Hamas, Baloch expressed Pakistan’s stance on justice. “Pakistan believes that the perpetrators of the attack on Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas, should be brought to justice,” she said. This statement highlights Pakistan’s continued support for Palestinian causes and its condemnation of violence against Palestinian leaders.
On the diplomatic front, Baloch discussed the recent swearing-in ceremony of the Iranian president. She noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had nominated a team led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to represent Pakistan at the event. This gesture underscores the importance Pakistan places on maintaining strong diplomatic relations with Iran.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch’s press briefing provided a comprehensive overview of Pakistan’s positions on various diplomatic and internal issues. Her statements reflect Pakistan’s commitment to addressing domestic conflicts, supporting its citizens abroad, and navigating complex international relations with a focus on diplomacy and justice. The Foreign Office’s responses to recent controversies underscore Pakistan’s efforts to manage its international image and address both internal and external challenges effectively.
