Pakistan rejects US designation of Pakistan in “Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom”
Islamabad, January 05, 2018 (PPI-OT):Pakistan rejects the US designation of Pakistan in the “Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom.” The report is not based on objective criteria. This placement on special watch list is a new categorization and we would be seeking clarification from the US regarding its rationale and implications. The designation overlooks the significant achievements of Pakistan in the area of human rights. Pakistan is firmly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights including the right of religious freedom, under its Constitution. Wide ranging legislative, institutional and administrative measures have been taken by…
Text of press note issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Press Note issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Islamabad, January 05, 2018 (PPI-OT):We are engaged with the US Administration on the issue of security cooperation and await further details. Impact of US' decision on pursuit of common objectives is also likely to emerge more clearly in due course of time. It, however, needs to be appreciated that Pakistan has fought the war against terrorism largely from its own resources which has cost over $120 billion in 15 years. We are determined to continue to do all it takes to secure the lives of our citizens and broader stability in the region. We believe that Pakistan-US cooperation in fighting…
Japanese Foreign Minister appreciate Pakistan’s sacrifices and contributions in the fight against terrorism
Islamabad, January 04, 2018 (PPI-OT):Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E. Mr. Taro Kono visited Pakistan on 3-4 January 2018. During the visit, he held bilateral talks with Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister. He also met the Chief of Army Staff. While noting that the year 2017 marked the 65th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Japan, the two Ministers expressed satisfaction that the bilateral relations are on an upward trajectory. They noted that the successful convening of a number of institutional dialogue processes covering a wide…
Certificate Awarding Ceremony for Afghan Health Professionals held
Islamabad, January 03, 2018 (PPI-OT):On 2nd January 2018, the Special Secretary Foreign Affairs Mr. Aitezaz Ahmed was Chief Guest at the certificate awarding ceremony of the Afghan Health Professionals (AHP), who underwent a twelve month training and capacity building program at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad. The ceremony was attended by the Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Sayed Abdul Nassir Yusufi. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Javed Akram, Vice Chancellor of PIMS Islamabad, briefed the guests on various aspects of Pakistan funded 'Afghan Health Professionals Training Project' and expressed willingness for continuing…
Visit of the Japanese Foreign Minister to Pakistan
Islamabad, January 01, 2018 (PPI-OT):The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E. Mr. Taro Kono will visit Pakistan on 3-4 January 2018. During the visit, he will hold wide ranging talks with Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on bilateral issues. Both sides will also exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interests. Foreign Minister Kono will also pay a courtesy call on the Prime Minister. Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1952, Pakistan-Japan relations have steadily progressed in political, economic, trade and other fields. High-level bilateral visits have…
Pakistan condemns twin terrorist attacks in Afghanistan
Islamabad, January 01, 2018 (PPI-OT):Pakistan strongly condemns the terrorist attacks in the Afghan city of Jalalabad and the northern province of Balkh. We are grieved at the loss of precious lives and express our heartfelt condolences with the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the wounded. Pakistan condemns terrorism in all forms and manifestations and reaffirms its firm commitment for continued efforts and cooperation for elimination of this menace. We express solidarity with the government and people of Afghanistan in the fight against terrorism. We believe concerted efforts by states, and close cooperation among them, are needed…
Pakistan’s unambiguous and steadfast support to Palestinian cause is well known: FO
Islamabad, December 31, 2017 (PPI-OT):In response to media queries regarding the participation of the Palestinian Ambassador in a public meeting held in support of Palestinians, the spokesperson said that Pakistan's unambiguous and steadfast support to the Palestinian cause was well known. Pakistan has always supported the two state solution, with East Jerusalem, the capital of the Palestinian State. Pakistan's unequivocal position was demonstrated in the rejection of the US decision to recognize Jerusalem as capital of Israel. Since then a number of public rallies and meetings have been held in Pakistan. The Ambassador of Palestine has participated in many of…