Islamabad, The Foreign Office of Pakistan declared the nation’s election process as an internal and sovereign affair, underscoring its dedication to fulfilling constitutional obligations amidst global scrutiny. The statement came during a weekly news briefing where Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch responded to media queries concerning international reactions to Pakistan’s general elections.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Baloch emphasized the democratic essence of Pakistan, spotlighting the massive turnout in the recent general elections, including significant participation from women and youth. She acknowledged the presence of international observers, such as those from the Commonwealth, affirming the country’s commitment to electoral transparency. Baloch reiterated that Pakistan’s constitutional obligations are paramount, indicating that external advice does not influence the nation’s democratic processes.

The interim report by the Commonwealth observer group, which lauded the elections’ transparency and participatory nature, was also mentioned. Baloch’s comments extended to address concerns regarding the budget announced by the Indian government for Jammu and Kashmir, labeling it an attempt to legitimize an illegal occupation and dismissing its impact on the region’s disputed status.

Baloch criticized the deployment of one million Indian security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing them of suppressing the Kashmiri people, and called for a resolution based on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Despite the strained relations with India, characterized by what she termed as belligerence, Pakistan remains open to peaceful relations with all neighbors, including India.

Furthermore, the spokesperson expressed Pakistan’s support for the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) condemnation of Israeli military actions in Gaza and the expansion of attacks on Rafah city. She highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging the UNSC to intervene with a ceasefire and to address the ongoing violence against Palestinian people. Pakistan, she stated, continues to offer unwavering support to Gaza’s people, advocating for their rights and well-being on an international stage.