Indian narrative of an alleged nuclear blackmail is a misleading & self-serving construct: FO Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan
Says Pakistan remains firmly opposed to the use or threat of use of force
ISLAMABAD ( WEB NEWS )
Pakistan has strongly rejected the immature remarks made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs in yet another demonstration of their chronic tendency to distort facts and twist statements out of context.
Responding to media queries about the remarks attributed to Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said Indian narrative of an alleged ‘nuclear blackmail’ is a misleading and self-serving construct.
He said Pakistan remains firmly opposed to the use or threat of use of force. He said India’s sabre rattling and war mongering whenever confronted, invite unfounded allegations bereft of rationality.
The spokesperson said Pakistan is a responsible nuclear weapon state with an elaborate command and control structure under full civilian control. He said it has always exercised discipline and restraint, while dealing with the issues of such importance.
The spokesperson said Pakistan’s sustained and credible counterterrorism efforts are internationally-acknowledged. He said our security forces remain the bulwark against terrorism.
The spokesperson said Indian External Affairs Ministry’s spurious insinuations are irresponsible and without a shred of evidence.
He said we also note with concern a pointless reference to the third countries, in a bid to exert pressure on Pakistan. This not only reflects India’s lack of diplomatic confidence but also constitutes a futile attempt to unnecessarily involve other countries.
The Foreign Office spokesperson said contrary to India’s belligerent and jingoistic approach, Pakistan shall continue to act as a responsible member of the comity of nations.
However, any act of Indian aggression or violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity will be met with an immediate and matching response. The onus of any ensuing escalation will rest squarely with the Indian leadership.