Pakistan Fully Prepared to Defend Its Sovereignty and Borders: Foreign Office

Islamabad: Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the country and its armed forces are fully prepared to defend their sovereignty, borders, and people. The Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized this during a weekly briefing, reiterating Pakistan’s stance on the Indus Waters Treaty, which it strongly rejects in the event of any attempts by India to suspend or alter the flow of water.
The spokesperson highlighted that water is a matter of life and death for Pakistan, and any attempt by India to block or divert water would be considered an act of war. “We reaffirm our commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty, which affects the lives of 250 million people,” said the spokesperson.
Furthermore, the Foreign Office stressed that in light of India’s irresponsible behavior, Pakistan reserves the right to suspend all bilateral agreements, including the Shimla Agreement. The spokesperson also condemned a recent statement from India, which was perceived as a veiled threat, and called for the international community to take note of India’s violations of international laws, its involvement in extraterritorial killings, and terrorism-related activities.
In a significant development, the National Security Council held an important meeting in which the actions of India were strongly criticized. The Council called for global awareness regarding India’s violations and demanded accountability.
As a result of the tensions, Pakistan has decided to take strict measures, including closing the Wagah border and allowing only those with exit permits until April 30, 2025. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) visa scheme for Indian citizens has been canceled, with the exception of Sikh pilgrims.
The spokesperson also announced the expulsion of Indian naval, air, and defense advisors, who have been declared persona non grata and given until April 30 to leave Pakistan. Additionally, the staff at the Indian High Commission will be reduced to 30 personnel.
Pakistan has also decided to close its airspace to Indian airlines and suspend all trade relations with India immediately.
On the diplomatic front, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Turkey, where he met with the Turkish President. Additionally, the Foreign Ministers of the United Arab Emirates and Rwanda recently visited Pakistan, engaging in discussions on regional and global issues, with Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed on cultural cooperation.
In international matters, Pakistan expressed its condolences over the passing of Pope Francis, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to global peace and humanity.