Pakistan exercises limited influence over the Taliban, reiterates FO

Spokesperson says won't let any occupation attempts of Jinnah House in Mumbai materialise

Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal said on Thursday that Pakistan exercises limited influence over the Afghan Taliban, Express News reported.

Addressing the weekly Foreign Office press briefing, Dr Faisal said that, "We have always stated that Pakistan exercises limited influence over the Taliban, and added that we cannot respond as to when the next round of negotiations between the US and Taliban will take place.

The spokesperson also termed the trilateral meeting between Pakistan, China and Afghanistan 'successful,' in which all three countries vowed to cooperate against terrorism.



“Pakistan has played its part in the Afghan peace process, and it has been lauded. All three countries had consultative meeting as well, in which it was decided that the parties would work against terrorism, and enjoy the benefits of the One belt one road,” he added.

Dr Faisal further stated that Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi met the Afghan delegation and reassured the Afghan foreign minister of cooperation from Pakistan for peace in the war-torn country. The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan's resolve to work towards the Afghan issue through dialogue.

The spokesperson condemned the Indian brutalities in held Kashmir. "Pellet guns and force is being used against the Kashmiris." the spokesperson said, adding that India is using force to suppress the voice of the Kashmiris."

He stated that India should give access to international organisations to investigate the atrocities being carried out in Kashmir.



In response to a question, Dr Faisal clarified that Kartarpur is not being given to India.

While talking about the case of Hamid Nihal Ansari, Dr Faisal stated that the convicted spy had crossed illegally into the country, and was involved in espionage. We exchange list of prisoners with India every six months, Dr Faisal stated.

In response to a question, the FO spokesperson said that Pakistan continues to exercise its rightful claim over the Jinnah house in Mumbai, and won't let any occupation attempts materialise. "Even India has acknowledged our claim."

Dr Faisal also informed that Pakistani prisoners in Colombo were on a hunger strike, the high commission got in touch with them and ensured provision of food and aid to the prisoners.