Islamabad: Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving tensions between the United States and Iran, while raising concerns over regional security and cross border terrorism.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan outlined Pakistan's position during the weekly press briefing on 6 November.
Khan said Pakistan remained engaged with regional partners to support a peaceful resolution of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
He expressed concern over Israeli actions in the Middle East and stressed that disputes should be resolved through dialogue rather than military escalation.
Pakistan also supported a negotiated settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue within the framework of the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Pakistani crew safe after Gulf vessel incident
The spokesperson confirmed that a vessel carrying liquefied natural gas to Karachi Port was struck by projectiles while passing through international waters in the Persian Gulf.
The Marshall Islands registered vessel Al Maida, operated by QatarEnergy, was carrying 25 crew members from different countries, including Pakistan.
The incident caused a small fire, but all crew members remained unharmed.
Khan said the vessel had returned safely to Qatar and Pakistani authorities were coordinating with relevant parties to establish further details.
Pakistan outlines position on India
Regarding a possible visit by Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the spokesperson said Pakistan would consider issuing a visa if requested.
However, Mann's travel would remain subject to clearance from the Indian government.
Khan also reiterated Pakistan's willingness to facilitate Sikh pilgrims visiting religious sites, including Nankana Sahib, for the 557th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
He said Pakistan had not imposed a visa ban on Indian nationals and remained prepared to facilitate visits through the Kartarpur Corridor.
Pakistan also confirmed receiving India's invitation to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Cultural and Civilizational Dialogue in New Delhi from 20 to 22 November.
A decision on participation will be taken after consultations within the government.
Afghanistan and international engagement
The Foreign Office reiterated concerns over terrorist activity originating from Afghan territory and urged the Afghan Taliban government to fulfil its commitments to prevent such activity.
Khan also confirmed that Pakistan was examining US proposals concerning the transit and repatriation of Afghan nationals.
Commenting on the US midterm elections, the spokesperson said Pakistan expected its relations with Washington to continue regardless of political changes.
He identified trade, investment, security and counterterrorism as important areas of bilateral cooperation.
The spokesperson also welcomed the adoption of Pakistan's resolution on regional and subregional conventional arms control by the First Committee of the United Nations General Assembly.
Pakistan said the resolution reflected its continued engagement on regional security and international arms control.
The briefing highlighted Islamabad's efforts to maintain diplomatic engagement while addressing security concerns and strengthening regional cooperation.
