ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has voiced strong opposition to efforts aimed at demolishing parts of the Shahi Masjid, a historic mosque in Madhya Pradesh, India. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson, Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan, expressed these concerns during a media briefing in Islamabad, emphasizing the importance of protecting religious sites and condemning the use of force against peaceful protesters.

According to Radio Pakistan, the spokesperson highlighted a troubling trend of actions impacting Muslim places of worship and cultural heritage in India. He criticized what he described as the misuse of administrative practices and judicial compliance to obscure patterns of persecution against minorities. He urged the international community to recognize and address the targeting of Muslims and their religious sites in India.

The spokesperson also addressed other issues, including the recent award by the Court of Arbitration affirming the Indus Waters Treaty’s validity and India’s obligations under it. He rejected India’s attempts to mischaracterize the court’s decision and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to international law and multilateralism. Additionally, he reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to its strategic partnership with the United States and its role as a mediator between Iran and the United States.