Islamabad, 17 January, 2024 (GNP): In response to the recent and unprovoked violation of Pakistani airspace, Pakistan’s Caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, conveyed Pakistan’s unequivocal condemnation in a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart.
The incident involved the targeting of an Iranian terrorist group, as claimed by Iran, and resulted in casualties, including the tragic death of two innocent children and injuries to three girls.
Expressing Pakistan’s strong disapproval, Caretaker Foreign Minister Jilani emphasized Pakistan’s inherent right to respond appropriately to such provocative acts.
The minister asserted that the attack not only constituted a serious breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty but also amounted to a blatant violation of international law and the spirit of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran.
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Furthermore, Minister Jilani highlighted the importance of concerted and coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, a common threat to the region. He underscored the need to avoid unilateral actions that could undermine regional peace and stability.
Also Read: Pakistan issues strong warning to Iran over airspace violation
In response to this violation, Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran and suspend all high-level visits, both ongoing and planned, between the two countries. The decision aims to convey the severity of the incident and signal Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
The Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, strongly condemned the incursion, terming it an “unprovoked and blatant breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty by Iran.”
She emphasized that such acts were unacceptable, had no justification, and violated international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
In the aftermath of this incident, China, a close partner to both Pakistan and Iran, urged restraint, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan calls for a thorough investigation into the matter, emphasizing the need for bilateral cooperation to address border security challenges effectively.