Islamabad: Pakistan remains ready to engage with the new US administration to take these longstanding relations forward, as stated by the Foreign Office. At his weekly news briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to a strong and robust relationship with the US based on the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.
According to Radio Pakistan, the spokesperson welcomed President Donald Trump’s oath-taking and highlighted the significance of the US-Pakistan relationship, which encompasses multiple areas. He expressed optimism about continuing the positive trajectory of these relations.
In response to a question, the spokesperson confirmed an existing arrangement with the US, which involves the resettlement of Afghans from Pakistan to the US by September this year. He assured that this arrangement remains in place.
The spokesperson also voiced serious concerns over the sanctuaries enjoyed by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan and urged Afghan authorities to address these issues for the bilateral relations to achieve their full potential.
On the Kashmir dispute, Shafqat Ali Khan reiterated Pakistan’s clear position and highlighted the global awareness of the oppression in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He affirmed Pakistan’s support for any efforts aimed at resolving the dispute.
Addressing another question, the spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the full implementation of the Indus Water Treaty, including its dispute settlement mechanism. He expressed hope that India will also implement the treaty in good faith and in its entirety.