Armed Forces Fully Ready to Defend Borders: Foreign Office

Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated on Friday that Pakistan and its armed forces are completely prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty, borders, and citizens.

During a weekly briefing, Khan strongly rejected India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, describing water as a “matter of life and death” for Pakistan. The 1960 treaty, facilitated by the World Bank, governs water distribution between the two nations.

Khan also asserted that Pakistan reserves the right to suspend all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Accord, in response to New Delhi’s “irresponsible behavior.”

This warning follows a National Security Council meeting where Pakistan condemned India’s actions, including violations of international law through extrajudicial killings and support for terrorism.

In retaliation, Pakistan has suspended all movement through the Wagah border, allowing only returnees to cross until April 30. Visas issued under the SAARC scheme to Indian citizens, except for Sikh pilgrims, have been revoked.

Additional measures include declaring Indian defence and diplomatic advisors persona non grata, expelling them by April 30, and limiting the Indian High Commission’s staff to 30. Pakistan has also suspended airspace access for Indian carriers and halted trade, including third-party trade, with India.

Khan also confirmed high-level diplomatic engagements, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Türkiye and meetings with officials from the UAE and Rwanda.

Source: Web Desk