Web Desk Pakpulse247: A powerful state institution held a three-hour-long meeting with senior journalists in Rawalpindi to discuss Pakistan’s political, security, and foreign policy situation. Around 35 to 40 journalists attended the briefing, including some who were previously considered critical of the establishment. The meeting was described as an effort to openly share views on important national issues.
Pakistan and Donald Trump’s Board of Peace
The discussion started with questions about Pakistan joining former US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace.” Journalists asked why this decision was not discussed in Parliament. The institution explained that this decision was made by the federal government and is not part of the institution’s responsibilities.
Pakistan’s Role in Global Conflicts
Journalists asked whether joining the Board of Peace means Pakistan supports possible US military actions against countries like Iran. The institution clearly said Pakistan’s role is only for promoting peace and dialogue. It does not mean Pakistan supports US wars or foreign policy decisions.
Sending Pakistani Army Abroad
There were rumors about Pakistan sending army divisions to other countries. The institution denied this and said no decision has been made to deploy Pakistani troops anywhere.
Pakistan’s Stand on Palestine
Questions were raised about Hamas and whether Pakistan could help disarm Palestinians. The institution strongly rejected this idea. It repeated that Pakistan supports the freedom and rights of Palestinians. Any role by Pakistan would only be humanitarian or welfare-based, not military.
Terrorism and Governance Issues
The issue of terrorism was discussed in detail. The institution said terrorism cannot be defeated without strong political will. It also praised the governance model in Balochistan, saying better administration has helped improve the situation there.
Situation in Azad Kashmir
Journalists asked about public feelings in Azad Kashmir. The institution said better engagement and governance are needed. It clearly stated that the people of Azad Kashmir are Pakistanis and have full rights to work and do business across Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Foreign Policy and Relations
A question was asked about the defense agreement between India and the UAE. The institution advised looking at the bigger picture. It said Pakistan has strong relations with the UAE and that other countries make alliances based on their own interests, which does not always harm Pakistan.
Who Makes the Final Decisions?
Mansoor Ali Khan questioned the idea that the military makes all major decisions. The institution responded that Pakistan is a democracy, the Prime Minister is the chief executive, and all institutions work under civilian leadership. It gave the 2019 India-Pakistan crisis as an example where political leadership made key decisions.
New Approach Towards Journalists
The presence of journalists who were earlier considered “unwanted” was also discussed. The institution said it now believes in talking to all journalists, even those with different or critical opinions, especially on national matters.
Provincial Governments and Security
On terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the institution said it would engage with the provincial government if the federal government asks for such involvement.
Rejecting Conspiracy Theories
When a journalist claimed that UAE and Qatar were supporting terrorism in Afghanistan, the institution strongly rejected the claim. It warned against spreading false information and conspiracy theories without evidence.
Political Neutrality and Past Decisions
The institution said it does not support any political party and works only for the state of Pakistan. It also admitted that some past decisions, including recognizing the Taliban, were made according to the situation at that time.
Afghanistan and Counter-Terrorism
The institution said Afghanistan should not be seen as a “graveyard of empires” but a place where many powers compete. It stressed the need for direct communication. It also referred to an operation carried out on October 10 against terrorists in Afghanistan, saying force was used to send a clear message.
Conclusion
The meeting ended with the institution accepting that disagreements may exist but stressing its right to share its point of view. Mansoor Ali Khan appreciated the open discussion and called it a positive step, even though not all questions were answered.
This briefing highlights Pakistan’s current political thinking, security concerns, and foreign policy approach, and shows a move towards more open communication with the media.