Islamabad, In a statement that could signal a potential shift towards regional rapprochement, Pakistan’s Foreign Office announced the country’s intention to foster peaceful relations with all its neighbors, specifically citing India, grounded in mutual respect and equality.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, indicated during a weekly briefing that the nation is open to third-party mediation to address longstanding disputes with India, including the contentious Kashmir issue. She confirmed that Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received congratulatory remarks from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via social media following his assumption of office, highlighting a readiness to engage in constructive dialogue and diplomacy.
With the formation of the federal cabinet still underway, definitive foreign policy directions are pending, awaiting the appointment and consensus of the new ministerial team. Baloch noted that the forthcoming foreign policy would be shaped by the new cabinet and particularly the foreign minister.
The spokesperson further emphasized the pivotal issue of Kashmir, stating that the potential for tourism and prosperity in the region is hindered by the absence of self-determination for Kashmiris. Baloch also reiterated Pakistan’s concerns over the repression faced by Kashmiris under Indian forces.