ISLAMABAD (Sabahuddin Qazi) Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, during the weekly media briefing held on April 30, 2026, presented a detailed account of significant diplomatic, security, and geopolitical developments over the past two weeks. According to him, due to traffic restrictions in Islamabad’s Red Zone, the previous week’s briefing could not be held, prompting a consolidated overview covering a wide range of issues.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammad Shahbaz Sharif, as well as our Deputy Prime Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan maintains open channels of communications with all concerned parties,” the Spokesperson stated.
The Foreign Office Spokesperson addressed critical concerns including cross-border hostilities with Afghanistan, Pakistan’s active diplomatic role in easing Middle East tensions, high-level international engagements led by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, economic diplomacy initiatives, and Pakistan’s firm stance on global conflicts such as Palestine.
Strong Condemnation of Afghan Cross-Border Attacks
The most alarming development highlighted by the Foreign Office Spokesperson was the unprovoked firing and shelling by Afghan forces along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
These incidents occurred on April 26 and April 29 in South Waziristan, particularly in areas adjacent to Bannu district, including Angoor Adda. According to the spokesperson, Afghan forces targeted civilian populations, resulting in multiple injuries and damage to homes.
Tragically, the victims included women and young children, aged 3, 8, and 10. The Foreign Office Spokesperson strongly condemned these attacks, describing them as unacceptable and deeply disturbing.
“Local tribal elders and residents have also raised serious concerns, demanding an immediate halt to such aggression.” The Foreign Office Spokesperson further emphasized that similar incidents have occurred in the past, indicating a troubling pattern of cross-border violations.
Pakistan expressed solidarity with the affected families while assuring that necessary measures are being taken to ensure the people safety and prevent future incidents.
Pakistan’s Constructive Role in Middle East Diplomacy
Turning to the Middle East, the Foreign Office Spokesperson highlighted Pakistan’s active and constructive diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.
Over the past two weeks, Pakistan maintained continuous communication with both Washington and Tehran, reinforcing its commitment to dialogue-oriented diplomacy. The spokesperson emphasized that Pakistan remains dedicated to promoting regional stability, international peace, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
This diplomatic engagement reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy of managing complex geopolitical challenges through sustained dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation.
Prime Minister’s Intensive Diplomatic Outreach
A significant portion of the briefing was devoted to the diplomatic initiatives led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The Foreign Office Spokesperson outlined a series of high-level engagements that underscore Pakistan’s proactive foreign policy.
Engagement with Iran
On April 19, the Prime Minister held a 45-minute telephone conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. During the discussion, he shared updates on his engagements with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey following his three-nation visit.
The Prime Minister also appreciated Iran’s constructive engagement with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during the latter’s visit to Tehran. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing regional peace with the support of international friends and partners.
Further telephone conversations between the two leaders took place on April 19 and April 25, reflecting ongoing coordination. Iran welcomed Pakistan’s peace efforts and agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
“The Prime Minister welcomed Iran’s decision to send a delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad.” The Foreign Office Spokesperson informed during the briefing.
Visit to Saudi Arabia
On April 16, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Saudi Arabia, where he held extensive talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The Prime Minister briefed the Saudi leadership on Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, including discussions held in Islamabad. Saudi Arabia appreciated Pakistan’s efforts and reaffirmed its support.
The Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson also highlighted the strong strategic partnership between the two countries, including cooperation under the Pakistan-Saudi Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic stability.
Visit to Qatar
During his visit to Qatar, the Prime Minister met Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The Emir praised Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and de-escalation in the region.
Pakistan also strongly condemned attacks against Qatar and reaffirmed its solidarity with the Qatari leadership and people, reinforcing strong bilateral relations.
Engagement in Turkey
The final leg of the Prime Minister’s visit was Turkey, where he attended the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. On the sidelines, he met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who appreciated Pakistan’s peace initiatives.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of utilizing the current opportunity to achieve lasting regional peace and stability.
Engagement with European Union and New Zealand
The Prime Minister also held a telephone conversation with European Council President Antonio Costa, discussing Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and Middle East developments. The EU appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role.
On April 26, the Prime Minister spoke with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who praised Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives. Both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral relations, and an invitation was extended for an official visit to Pakistan.
European Union Business Delegation and Economic Diplomacy
The Foreign Office Spokesperson highlighted the visit of a European Union business delegation to Pakistan. The delegation engaged in extensive discussions with government officials and business leaders.
Over 600 business-to-business meetings were planned and largely materialized, covering sectors such as energy, IT, and communications. Delegates expressed confidence in Pakistan’s investment potential and emphasized opportunities for expanding economic cooperation.
This reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on economic diplomacy and attracting foreign investment.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister’s Global Engagements
The Foreign Office Spokesperson provided a detailed account of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s extensive diplomatic engagements.
Bilateral Meetings
During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, the Foreign Minister held meetings with counterparts from Turkey, the United Kingdom, Egypt, South Korea, Northern Cyprus, and key Turkish economic institutions.
R4 Consultative Group
A major milestone was the third consultative meeting of the “R4” group comprising Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. The meeting focused on regional cooperation, dialogue, and shared prosperity.
Panel Participation
The Foreign Minister also addressed a panel discussion titled “Trading Trust: The Future of Economic Integration and Stability in South Asia.” He highlighted the importance of regional organizations like SAARC and the United Nations and reiterated Pakistan’s stance on resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions.
Extensive Diplomatic Calls
The Foreign Minister held numerous telephone conversations with global counterparts, including officials from Poland, Iran, Canada, Egypt, Australia, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
These interactions demonstrate Pakistan’s active and continuous diplomatic engagement worldwide.
Pakistan’s Firm Position on Palestine and Israel
The Foreign Office Spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong stance on the Palestine issue.
Pakistan joined international partners in issuing two joint statements:
- On April 18, condemning Israel’s appointment of a diplomatic representative to Somaliland, which Pakistan considers a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.
- On April 23, condemning repeated violations of the status of Jerusalem’s holy sites, particularly incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Pakistan also issued a separate national statement condemning these actions, reinforcing its commitment to international law and Palestinian rights.
President’s Visit to China and Strategic Relations
The briefing concluded with updates on President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari’s ongoing visit to China. The Foreign Office Spokesperson described the visit as part of long-standing high-level exchanges between the two countries.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, adding special significance to the visit. The engagements are expected to further strengthen strategic cooperation and bilateral ties.
Conclusion
The detailed briefing by the Foreign Office Spokesperson reflects Pakistan’s comprehensive foreign policy strategy, balancing immediate security concerns with proactive global diplomacy.
From condemning cross-border aggression to facilitating Middle East peace efforts, strengthening economic ties, and maintaining a firm stance on international issues, Pakistan continues to assert itself as a responsible and engaged global actor.
The Foreign Office Spokesperson’s message is clear: Pakistan remains committed to peace, dialogue, and cooperation, while firmly safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests in an increasingly complex world.
Mr. Sabahuddin Qazi is based in Islamabad.
