Pakistan affirms no expansionist ambitions, stresses respect for Afghan sovereignty
Pakistan has rejected a recent statement made by the Indian Army Chief, as well as India’s comments regarding Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The statement came during the weekly briefing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The spokesperson emphasized that Wahan is part of Afghanistan, and Pakistan has no expansionist ambitions. Pakistan, he affirmed, respects Afghan territorial integrity and is committed to peaceful relations with its neighbors.
The spokesperson also dismissed media reports suggesting Pakistan’s intention to seize Wahan, calling such claims contrary to facts. He noted that the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has used Afghan territory for terrorism against Pakistan.
Regarding regional security, the spokesperson highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to securing its borders. He further mentioned the visit of a Bangladesh military delegation to Pakistan, describing it as a regular exchange between the two nations.
On the matter of Russia, the spokesperson acknowledged the importance of the bilateral relationship and noted recent visits by Russian leadership to Pakistan.
The Foreign Office also expressed support for the ceasefire in Gaza, condemning Israel’s destabilizing actions in the region.
The Indian Army Chief’s remarks had sparked controversy earlier this week. On January 13, General Upendra Dwivedi, in a press conference, falsely claimed that Kashmiri freedom fighters were being supported by Pakistan, attempting to shift the blame for India’s failures in suppressing the Kashmir liberation movement.
Dwivedi also claimed that the situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir was under control. However, this assertion is contradicted by the presence of over 1 million Indian troops and paramilitary forces in the region. If the situation were truly under control, the frequent house-to-house searches and killings of Kashmiri youth would not be occurring.
Moreover, the Indian Army Chief acknowledged the lack of trust between Indian and Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), further undermining his claims of stability.
India’s ongoing attempts to conceal its role in fostering terrorism globally were also addressed during the press conference, with the Indian Army Chief continuing to deflect responsibility for India’s international actions.
