Pakistan reviewing US aid suspension, in talks with US officials

FO spox emphasises that the US and Pakistan have collaborated on various programmes across different sectors for years

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The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a response regarding the suspension of US aid to Pakistan.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan addressed the issue during a weekly briefing, stating that the government is currently reviewing the US President's recent orders and is in communication with US officials about the aid situation.

Khan emphasised that the US and Pakistan have collaborated on various programs across different sectors for years, and Pakistan remains engaged with the US on the matter of assistance.

He also expressed Pakistan's desire to strengthen economic relations with the United States.

Regarding US-India relations, Khan refrained from commenting, stating that Pakistan’s relations with the US are solid. He also clarified that the US aid freeze applies to all countries for 90 days, and cooperation continues in various sectors, including through US assistance to Pakistan.

The spokesperson also noted that US businessmen regularly visit Pakistan and that such visits are not coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but are part of regular business activities.

Additionally, Khan discussed upcoming naval exercises scheduled from February 7-12, 2025, in which 60 countries will participate, aimed at promoting peace and cooperation.

Khan provided updates on the return of 22 Pakistani nationals from Morocco, following a tragic boat incident. He assured that steps are being taken for their safe return, although further details on the incident were not disclosed due to its sensitivity.

Furthermore, Pakistan condemned attacks on Saudi hospitals in Sweden and Israeli aggression in the West Bank. He also announced a bilateral political consultation meeting between Pakistan and Doha on February 5, 2025, led by the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Finally, Khan highlighted the presence of 770 Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails and reiterated Pakistan’s concerns over US weapons being used in terrorism within Pakistan, specifically from Afghanistan, stressing that Pakistan has repeatedly raised this issue on various forums.