Pakistan needs to be alert till Indian polls conclude: FM Qureshi

Says there is no credibility in news circulating regarding Dr Aafia's release

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Saturday said that despite de-escalation in Pak-India tensions, the country will need to remain alert till national elections in India conclude on May 19.

Speaking to the media in Multan, he said, “We [Pakistan] are thankful to the friendly countries for the role they played. However, we still have to stay alert along the Line of Control (LoC) and maintain vigilance of Pakistan’s airspace”.

“Tension between Pakistan and India have eased. We do not want to move ahead with war but desire peace,” he said while insisting that the release of the Indian pilot by Pakistan also sent a positive message across the world.

“For the first time, India’s state terrorism was mentioned during a meeting of the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) which was a big achievement.”

The foreign minister added that he was leaving for China on March 18 where he would discuss the current situation with the Chinese leadership.

Replying to a question regarding Dr Aafia Siddiqui, who is imprisoned in the United States, Qureshi rejected rumours circulating about her release.

“There is no credibility in the news circulating regarding Dr Aafia's release. Social media will have to act responsibly over sensitive issues,” the foreign minister stressed.