Apr 09 , 2015
News
Pakistan, Iran wants to resolve Yemen crisis through political dialogue: FO
APPISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Thursday clarified that there is no disagreement between Pakistan and Iran to resolve the issue of Yemen as both the countries are willing to resolve it through political dialogue and want peaceful solution to the issue.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam in her weekly press briefing here at Foreign Office today said, “Pakistan and Iran are ready to continue their efforts for peaceful resolution of Yemen crisis.” She said that the Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif who is visiting Pakistan had held detailed discussions with Pakistani leadership and exchanged views on regional situation especially the Yemen crisis and its possible solutions. Replying to a question, the spokesperson said, “Pakistan wants an early end of war in Yemen. In this regard Pakistan is in touch with different Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Oman, Iran and other countries.” She clarified that the visit of Iranian foreign minister to Pakistan was earlier scheduled before the crisis in Yemen was erupted. He said that both Pakistan and Iran have agreed to encourage the warring factions in Yemen to move towards dialogue for de-escalation of situation.
Referring to Pakistan’s policy on the issue of Yemen, the spokesperson said that Pakistan had repeatedly condemned the actions of non-state actors who dislodged the legitimate government of Yemen which was even recognised by the international community and the United Nations. Replying to a question, she confirmed that Pakistan is procuring US military equipment to meet its critical defence needs under defence pact with United States. The spokesperson said that proposed military equipment will also help Pakistan in its campaign against terrorism. She said that the US State department has notified to the Congress about the proposed sale of military equipment to Pakistan and now the Congress would give its approval within one month. She expressed the confidence that the final clearance will come through soon.
Appreciating the US State Department notification, she said this is recognition of Pakistan’s needs in counter terrorism operations. Replying to a question about banning of a charity organization Al Furqan foundation by the United States, the spokesperson said that the US has proscribed the entity under its domestic laws and it has duly informed Pakistan about its action. Commenting on the statements and discussion being held at the joint sitting of parliament in Pakistan, she said that there is a complete consensus within Pakistan that in case of any threat to the holiest sites in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan will be the first country to come forward for their defence. The spokesperson said that Pakistan had very close, brotherly and friendly relations with Saudi Arabia and any threat to its territorial integrity and sovereignty will evoke a strong response from Pakistan.
Answering a question regarding the killing of seven Iranian border security guards, she said that Pakistan had asked Iran to share the evidence or intelligence that the culprits of the incident have entered into Pakistani as the incident had been occurred inside Iran. She assured that strict action will be taken if the culprits were found inside Pakistan. Replying to a question about the evacuation of Pakistanis from Yemen, the spokesperson said that majority of the Pakistanis had been evacuated from the country. She said that there are still some Pakistanis there as they did not want to leave Yemen due to various personal reasons. Replying to a question about the visit of Chinese president to Pakistan, the spokesperson confirmed that he will visit Pakistan this month, however, dates have yet not been finalised.
She said that Pakistan and China are strategic partners and all weather friends and such high level exchanges are aimed at further strengthening and cementing the existing bilateral relations. Replying to a question about Pakistan-India ties, the spokesperson said that Islamabad remained committed to resume result oriented, meaningful and sustainable dialogue process with New Delhi for resolution of all outstanding issues including the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Answering a question about the prime minister’s expected visit to Indonesia this month to attend African-Asian Summit, the spokesperson said that so far it has not been finalised.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk