Pakistan to play proactive role in regional de-escalation: FO

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to a constructive and principled role in easing regional tensions, emphasizing that its efforts are guided by sincerity and clear objectives for immediate de-escalation.

This was stated by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi during his weekly media briefing in Islamabad on Thursday.

He noted that Pakistan remains actively engaged with relevant regional players and partners beyond the region, consistently promoting an immediate halt to hostilities and advocating for a path that leads to a lasting and peaceful resolution.

Tahir Andrabi highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is personally leading Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives to foster dialogue and understanding among all concerned parties. He pointed out that the Prime Minister’s recent public statements have garnered recognition internationally, including from U.S. leadership.

The FO spokesperson further stated that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has also maintained continuous, substantive engagement with his counterparts across the region and globally, reinforcing Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts.

Addressing media reports, Tahir Andrabi expressed concern over the spread of speculation and unverified information regarding developments in the region, including claims about diplomatic exchanges and alleged travel plans. He stressed that diplomacy during sensitive times requires discretion, patience, and confidentiality.

The FO spokesperson urged media outlets and stakeholders to act responsibly, avoid conjecture, and rely exclusively on official channels for timely and accurate information.

Responding to a question regarding India’s reaction to Pakistan’s statement on the sentencing of Kashmiri Hurriyat leaders, including Asiya Andrabi, he dismissed the Indian comments, asserting, “India cannot conflate legitimate political dissent in pursuit of fundamental political rights with terrorism.”

Tahir Andrabi criticized India for historically labeling legitimate political movements as acts of terrorism and raised concerns over the impartiality of its judicial system, citing the acquittal of the principal accused in the Samjhota Express bombing case despite confessions.

He described the verdict against prominent Kashmiri political figures as reflective of political vendetta.
Regarding recent remarks from the Indian External Affairs Minister, the spokesperson suggested that such statements reveal frustration, noting, “when arguments run thin, invective appears to fill the gap.”

The FO spokesperson said Pakistan does not engage in provocative rhetoric, and its approach remains rooted in restraint, decorum, and measured diplomacy rather than public posturing or excessive language.