Action in Afghanistan was taken on the request of the Afghan side, says FO Spokesman

At his weekly news briefing in Islamabad on Thursday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Qazi Khalilullah said Pakistan has been saying that Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) poses a threat.

He denied presence of ISIL in the country adding that Pakistan will continue to cooperate the international community in the fight against terrorism.

Speaking about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s telephone call to PM Nawaz, Qazi Khalilullah Pakistan wishes to have good relations with all countries in the region.

“We want to promote peace and development in the region. Pakistan, therefore, would welcome any proposal from India that supports these objectives.Pakistan-India relations”, he added.

About the Chinese investment in the country, Qazi Khalilullah said both the countries are committed to China Pakistan economic corridor project.

The spokesperson to a question clarified that Iran has neither shown any concern nor has enforced the condition of polio related restriction for Pakistani visitors including Zayreen. He said the Iranian authorities administer polio drops to Pakistani children at their airports.

When asked about relations with Russia, the spokesperson said Pakistan has embarked upon a policy of constructive engagement with countries in the region and beyond. He said Russia is an important country and we want to enhance relations with it in all fields of mutual interests. Our relations are on an upward trajectory over the last couple of years. These relations, he said, are independent of any influence from any other country.

Earlier, in his opening statements, the foreign office spokesperson facilitated the armed forces of Pakistan on the completion of one year of operation Zarb-e-Azb.

He said the operation has achieved resounding success in eliminating terrorism. Paying glowing tributes to the martyrs, he expressed profound gratitude to the families whose loved ones laid down their lives while serving the nation and securing its future.

Qazi Khalilullah said the international community is also deeply appreciative of the sacrifices given by the people of Pakistan to make the world a safer place.