‘Pakistan’s foreign policy not determined by its economic policy’

—FO Spokesman says no plans of establishing Chinese military bases in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office (FO) Spokesman Dr Faisal has said that Pakistan’s sacrifices are apparent and a protest against US President Trump’s tweet has been recorded with the US ambassador to Pakistan.

“Pakistan’s foreign policy is not determined by its economic policy. Brave nations face challenges buoyantly. An elaborated statement on US aid will be released shortly,” the spokesman said.

Reiterating the message given by DG ISPR, he said that ‘any drone attack will be countered effectively’.

To a question about US President Donald Trump’s Pakistan policy, the spokesman said that the matter is with the highest forum, which is cabinet`s National Security Committee. He added that we are a strong nation and are able to face any challenges bravely and courageously.

Talking about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) the Dr Faisal said that Pakistan does not have any plans of establishing Chinese military bases in Pakistan, neither has any request on the matter been made by China.

He said that this is just a fallacious propaganda against CPEC and the development of Pakistan.

To a question about Afghan refugees, Dr Faisal said that Pakistan has extended unprecedented support to Afghan refugees and has offered them educational and professional training facilities so that they can better serve their country when they return. He added that trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan has witnessed phenomenal increase last year with Pakistan’s export to Afghanistan increasing by nine per cent.

He went on to say that they are also engaged with Afghanistan for the early convening of Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Cooperation Authority.

The spokesman urged India to stop atrocities in occupied Kashmir instead of playing political theatrics aimed at distorting Pakistan’s humanitarian gestures.

He said that Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Yasin Malik`s letter to Indian external affairs minister bears witness to the Indian gimmickry and the situation of human rights in Indian jails.

Later responding to questions by media, Dr Faisal said that Pakistan is clear and not confused like India, which has put travel restraints on sportsmen and general public visiting for religious purposes.

“India has not issued visas to pilgrims going to Urs of Khawaja Moinuddin. India’s refusal to send its national blind cricket team to Pakistan is also regretful,” he added.

He said Pakistan believes dialogue is the ultimate mode of resolving disputes.

To another question regarding India’s arms buildup, the spokesman said that Pakistan has always maintained that anti-ballistic missile systems entail instability in the region and provoke an arms race. He added that Pakistan is desirous of a peaceful neighbourhood in which countries utilise their resources for the betterment of the common man, instead of squandering them in a futile arms race.

He further said that Pakistan is fully committed to, and has proposed to India some restraint measures to promote strategic stability.

On tensions in the Korean peninsula, the spokesman said that Pakistan shares concerns with international community and maintains that all concerned parties should fulfil their obligations and follow a policy of peace and reconciliation. He added, “We encourage the relevant parties to resume meaningful dialogue.”

Responding to question about protests in Iran, Dr Faisal said, “Iran is our brother Muslim country. Protests in Tehran are its internal matter.”