ISLAMABAD (PNP) – Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Thursday outlined the government’s ongoing diplomatic engagement on a range of regional and international issues, including efforts to secure the release of Pakistani hostages held by Somali pirates, mediation initiatives in the Middle East, concerns over India’s statements on water resources and internal situation of Azad Kashmir, and developments relating to regional security.
During the weekly briefing, the Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi provided updates on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and responded to questions on foreign policy, security, and bilateral relations.
Foreign Office Briefing Focuses on Hostage Release Efforts
The Foreign Office said Pakistani nationals aboard the cargo vessel MT Honour 25 have remained in the custody of Somali pirates for more than 50 days despite ongoing negotiations.
According to the spokesperson, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar recently discussed the matter with Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali, emphasizing the need to ensure the welfare of the hostages and secure their early release. Pakistan has also engaged Somali authorities through diplomatic channels, including consultations involving the Pakistani Embassy and senior Somali officials.
The Foreign Office announced that a meeting involving relevant ministries and stakeholders will be held next week to further coordinate efforts aimed at securing the release and repatriation of the hostages.
Pakistan Continues Middle East Diplomatic Engagement
The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s concern over ongoing tensions in the Middle East and called on all parties to adhere to ceasefire understandings and prioritize dialogue.
He said Pakistan continues to support diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting negotiated solutions to regional disputes. The briefing highlighted recent engagements by senior Pakistani officials, including contacts with Iran, Türkiye, the United States and other regional partners.
The Foreign Office noted that Pakistan remains committed to mediation and facilitation efforts despite the challenges posed by ongoing hostilities. Officials expressed hope that diplomacy would ultimately contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region.
India, Water Dispute and Regional Security
Responding to questions regarding India, the Spokesperson rejected recent remarks by Indian officials concerning Azad Jammu and Kashmir and reiterated Pakistan’s position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. The spokesperson said the issue should be resolved in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He also responded to comments by India’s water minister regarding future water flows to Pakistan. Officials described any attempt to restrict water resources as inconsistent with international obligations and warned that Pakistan would protect its rights through diplomatic, legal and political means.
On strategic security matters, the spokesperson referred to a recent Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report concerning India’s nuclear capabilities. Pakistan expressed concern over what it described as India’s continuing military modernization and urged the international community to monitor developments affecting regional strategic stability.
Afghanistan, UAE and Counterterrorism Issues
During the briefing, the Spokesperson said Pakistan’s recent military actions near the Afghan border targeted terrorist hideouts linked to attacks carried out in Bannu and North Waziristan. He stated that operations were conducted on the basis of credible intelligence and were aimed at terrorist infrastructure.
Regarding reports of Pakistani nationals deported from the United Arab Emirates, the Foreign Office said Pakistani diplomatic missions remain engaged with UAE authorities. Officials expressed confidence that any legitimate property or assets left behind by affected individuals would be addressed through established administrative and legal procedures.
The spokesperson also commented on discussions at the United Nations concerning the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), saying procedural issues had affected the listing process and that Pakistan’s mission to the UN continues to engage relevant stakeholders on the matter.
Conclusion
The latest Foreign Office Briefing by Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi underscored Pakistan’s focus on diplomacy, regional stability and citizen welfare. From efforts to secure the release of hostages in Somalia to engagement on Middle East tensions, India-Pakistan issues, counterterrorism concerns and overseas Pakistanis, officials emphasized continued diplomatic outreach and coordination with international partners. The briefing reflected Pakistan’s stated commitment to dialogue, peaceful conflict resolution and the protection of its national interests in an increasingly complex regional environment.
Mr. Sabahuddin Qazi is a senior journalist, analyst and researcher based in Islamabad.
