In a strong rebuttal, Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO) has dismissed the joint statement issued by India and the United States criticizing Pakistan, calling it "one-sided" and "misleading." The statement, which came during US President Joe Biden’s recent visit to India, has sparked a fresh diplomatic row between the countries.
The joint statement raised concerns over terrorism emanating from Pakistan, accusing the country of not doing enough to curb the activities of militant groups operating within its borders. The statement further emphasized the importance of Pakistan taking stronger actions to eliminate terrorist safe havens.
In its response, Pakistan’s Foreign Office condemned the assertion, stating that the statement was an attempt to “malign” the country’s efforts in combating terrorism. A spokesperson for the FO emphasized that Pakistan has been a long-time victim of terrorism and has made significant sacrifices in the fight against extremists. The spokesperson accused India of using the platform to propagate "baseless" allegations and divert attention from its own human rights violations in the disputed Kashmir region.
Pakistan’s FO also highlighted the country’s commitment to regional peace and security, stressing that it has made considerable efforts to promote peace through various diplomatic and security measures. The statement further questioned why India, despite its own record of human rights concerns, was being given such support by the US, a close ally.
Relations between Pakistan, India, and the United States have long been a source of tension. The US has traditionally played a balancing role in its diplomatic engagement with both countries, though its ties with India have strengthened in recent years. In the joint statement, the US underscored its growing partnership with India and expressed a commitment to working together to address security challenges in the region, particularly terrorism.
Pakistan's diplomatic response, however, underscores the deep-rooted frustrations with what it sees as biased international pressure, particularly from India, in the ongoing geopolitical dynamic. This latest exchange highlights the fragile nature of relations between Pakistan, India, and the US, with each side continuing to navigate complex regional dynamics.
