ISLAMABAD (National Times) – Pakistan on Thursday expressed hope that Iran would take an action against militants involved cross-border attack on security personnel in Panjgur district of Balochistan.
Four Pakistani troops were martyred when terrorists from across the Pakistan-Iran border targeted a convoy of security personnel patrolling along the divide in Chukab Sector on Wednesday. In response, the ISPR said the Iranian side had been asked to hunt down the militants.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said the terrorists used the Iranian soil to launch attack against Pakistan and condemned the incident in strong words. She said both neighbouring countries enjoyed “exemplary brotherly ties” and hoped that Iran would take stern action against the elements involved in the terrorist activity.
Pakistan will not let anyone to use its soil against Iran, she renewed the pledge and asked the neighbouring country to ensure the same.
The spokesperson said Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. She said we strongly commit that our territory will not be used for undertaking cross border attacks in Iran and we expect the same from Iran. Ms Baloch also asked Iran to ensure a thorough investigation in the incident.
She said Pakistan and Iran are neighbors and our channel of communications were active. “We are sharing with the Iranian side our concerns regarding the incident.”
Responding to a question, the foreign office spokesperson said Pakistan has always desired cooperative relationship with all its neighbors including India. We have consistently advocated for constructive engagement to resolve all outstanding issues including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir. However, India s unabated hostility and retrogressive actions have vitiated the environment and impeded the process of peace and cooperation.
She said onus remains on India to create an enabling environment for meaningful and result oriented dialogue. The reversal of India s illegal and unilateral actions of 5th August 2019 in the illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir is of critical importance. She said Pakistan will also appreciate if international community especially friendly countries would convince India to take such steps.
To a question, the spokesperson said Pakistan is in close contact with Saudi Arabia on matters pertaining to their investment in Pakistan.
The spokesperson said Pakistan and the United States are in the process of robust engagement and dialogue. She said Pakistan expects to further deepen its cooperation with the US.
The spokesperson said Pakistan and China have agreed to temporarily reopen Khunjerab border in two phases. In the first phase, the Khunjerab border will open on Thursday for two days and again from end January to early February after the Chinese Spring Festival. She said the Khunjerab border remains closed during the winter months. However the Chinese side has agreed to Pakistani request for temporary reopening of the border to facilitate local traders.
