Aziz negates perception of failed foreign policy, Pakistan's isolation

“It is a wrong perception that Pakistan’s foreign policy has failed and that it is becoming isolated,” he said while responding to motions of the opposition regarding the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and their criticism of the country’s foreign policy in the National Assembly.

Aziz said Pakistan was pursuing a balanced policy to ensure its own national interests. He said the main objective of foreign policy has been economical development. Drastic changes took place in the international politics after 9/11. However, relations with Iran and Afghanistan were as usual.

He blamed former ambassador to United States for creating hurdles in ties through poor lobbying.

He said the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) membership was a proof of Pakistan’s successful foreign policy. Moreover, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, CASA-1000, TAPI and Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project were concrete achievements of the country.

Sartaj Aziz said Pakistan had strong historical and cultural ties with Muslim countries and a few visits of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to some Muslim states would have no effect on our relations with them.

The adviser on foreign affairs pointed out that Pakistan was making successful efforts to block India’s entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group.

“Pakistan is fully determined to protect its nuclear programme, which is the cornerstone of its foreign policy,” he said.

He said Pakistan’s relations with Iran were heading in right direction, and would strengthen further in days to come.

The adviser said we are strictly following the policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan. He said Pakistan is sincerely trying to maintain peace in Afghanistan and work on border management is continuing.

He said border management between the two countries is a must to check infiltration of terrorists and extremists.

The opposition had termed efforts of Foreign Office insufficient for getting membership of NSG. They said efforts were not made for export of Pakistani manpower abroad. They demanded that foreign policy should be reviewed keeping in view the changes taken place in the region.