The Foreign Office on Thursday said India’s reaction to the recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan has supported Pakistan’s long-held position on external involvement in terrorism.
Speaking at the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said India’s response “effectively corroborates” Pakistan’s stance regarding efforts to destabilise the country.
Last month, the banned Baloch Liberation Army carried out a series of attacks in different areas of Balochistan, killing 22 security personnel and 37 civilians.
According to a January 31 statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations, terrorists linked to India-sponsored Fitna al-Hindustan targeted civilians and security forces in Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar and Pasni.
The ISPR said security forces and law enforcement agencies launched immediate clearance operations across the province, killing 216 terrorists, including three suicide bombers.
The Foreign Office spokesperson said Pakistan remains committed to peace and stability in the region but will continue to protect its sovereignty and national interests.
During the briefing, Andrabi also referred to the Samjhauta Express bombing, noting that this month marks its 19th anniversary. He said more than 70 people were killed in the attack.
He said Swami Aseemanand had confessed to his role in the bombing, while Indian Army officer Colonel Shrikant Purohit had also admitted involvement. However, he added that all four accused are still at large.
The spokesperson rejected the recent statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, calling it baseless.
