No military alliance in the works: FO

Spokesperson says Pakistan not joining Abraham Accords

ISLAMABAD:

Foreign Office spokesperson Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan on Friday highlighted Pakistan's growing diplomatic profile at international and regional forums, including its assumption of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Presidency, participation in the 17th ECO Summit, and ongoing efforts for humanitarian and legal accountability in the region.

In a comprehensive weekly news briefing, the spokesperson underlined, "Pakistan assumes the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council this July with a deep sense of responsibility and purpose. Our approach will remain anchored in the principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism, and international law."

The spokesperson announced that Pakistan will convene two high-level signature events including an open debate on "Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes" on July 22, and a briefing on "UN Cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)" on July 24.

Additionally, Pakistan will preside over the quarterly open debate on the Question of Palestine on July 23, all chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, he added.

"These meetings reflect Pakistan's intent to serve as a bridge between the Council and the broader UN membership," the spokesperson added.

Commenting on any trilateral cooperation with China and Bangladesh, the spokesperson described it as routine and focused on regional development, while dismissing reports of a SAARC alternative as speculative.

The visit of Pakistani military officials to Bangladesh, including Rohingya areas, he said, was characterised as part of ongoing cooperation with no change in Pakistan's policy on Rohingya Muslims.

He confirmed that Pakistan was not forming any military alliance with other regional countries, including China, Russia, Türkiye, Bangladesh or Afghanistan.

The spokesperson dismissed speculation on Pakistan joining the Abraham Accords, reaffirming its unwavering support for a two-state solution and full Palestinian statehood.

He mentioned that Pakistan expressed disappointment over the SAARC summit being stalled by one member. Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to SAARC and readiness to host the next summit, he added.

The spokesperson also welcomed a Supplemental Award issued on June 27 by the Court of Arbitration in the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric dispute between Pakistan and India.

"The court reaffirmed its competence to continue proceedings despite India's unilateral attempt to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. This Award vindicates Pakistan's legal and moral stance," he stated. "We call upon India to resume normal functioning under the Treaty and fully honor its international obligations."

He said Pakistan rejected India's denial of the supplemental award by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), terming New Delhi's position "illegal" and lacking legitimacy under international law.

The spokesperson emphasized that the Indus Waters Treaty remains operative and the award reaffirms Pakistan's stance. On whether a formal communication has been made to India, Ambassador Khan noted that technical matters were being handled by the Ministry of Water.