Pakistan Working for Safe Return of 10 Citizens Held by Somali Pirates, Foreign Office Says
Islamabad: Pakistan is making continuous diplomatic efforts to secure the safe return of 10 Pakistani nationals currently being held by Somali pirates, the Foreign Office said during its weekly press briefing.
Foreign Office spokesperson stated that Pakistan remains in close contact with the Somali government and is actively pursuing all possible diplomatic channels to ensure the release and repatriation of the hostages.
Addressing regional issues, the spokesperson warned that any attempt by India to stop or weaponize river waters under the Indus Waters Treaty would constitute a violation of international law. Pakistan, he said, has all available options to respond to any move that threatens its water and food security.
The spokesperson also expressed concern over reports that India has invited tenders for the proposed Chenab-Beas Link Tunnel project, describing the move as inconsistent with the Indus Waters Treaty, the Geneva Water Convention, and other international water laws. He added that India neither formally informed Pakistan about the project nor shared the relevant details.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s position on the Abraham Accords, the spokesperson said there has been no change in the country’s policy regarding Palestine. Pakistan continues to support the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and viable Palestinian state and upholds the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
On consular matters, the spokesperson confirmed that a resident of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, identified as Zeeshan, was detained by Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan’s High Commission is in contact with Indian authorities and is working to secure his release.
Discussing developments in the Middle East, the spokesperson said Pakistan is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions and promoting peace. Following his visit to the United States, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held discussions with the foreign ministers of Egypt and Kuwait, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with the Iranian president regarding regional developments.
The Foreign Office also described Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China as highly significant. During the visit, he met with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang to discuss bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and regional issues.
The spokesperson noted that Ishaq Dar later visited the United States, where he participated in United Nations activities and held meetings with world leaders, foreign ministers, and UN officials. He also met with Marco Rubio to discuss bilateral ties and regional matters. According to the spokesperson, Rubio praised Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts, describing them as important for regional peace.
Responding to media reports, the Foreign Office strongly denied claims that Ishaq Dar shared intelligence regarding Iran’s nuclear program during his meeting with Marco Rubio, calling such reports baseless and inaccurate.
Pakistan also welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and reiterated its support for peace and stability in the region.
Commenting on recent remarks by the European Union’s Special Representative for Human Rights, the spokesperson said Pakistan and the EU continue to engage in constructive dialogue. He added that Pakistan is making positive progress in the field of human rights and regularly submits reports to relevant international bodies.
Regarding Afghanistan, the spokesperson said recent meetings and discussions included detailed exchanges on the situation in the country. He noted that the European Union has gained a better understanding of Pakistan’s position, which was also highlighted during a joint press conference.
The spokesperson further welcomed a joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of eight Arab and Islamic countries condemning provocative actions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, emphasizing the importance of respecting religious and holy sites.
