Pakistan not others to decide anti-terror operations
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, May 20,IRNA -- Pakistan said Thursday it will take a sovereign decision as to when and where to undertake a military operation against the militants.
Local reports said that Pakistani leaders have agreed in a meeting on Wednesday with the U.S National Security Advisor and CIA Chief to launch operation in North Waziristan region.
Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit denied reports and said Pakistan is not under U.S. pressure for a full-fledged operation in North Waziristan tribal region.
The spokesman categorically stated that be it Tribal Areas or any other part, Pakistan will proceed in accordance with its own priorities and plans.
Replying to a question he said the United States has approached Pakistan for opening up of a Consulate in southwestern city of Quetta and the request is being processed.
To another question he said Pakistan and the United States are working together to expedite issuance of visas.
Sources say that Pakistan Foreign Ministry has recently conveyed concern to the U.S. over delay in issuance of visas to diplomats.
The spokesman clarified that except India there was no fixed quota for diplomatic presence of any country in Pakistan. “Pakistan and India have a mutual agreement about maximum number of personnel in their respective High Commissions in Islamabad and New Delhi”.
BLASPHEMOUS CARICATURES: The spokesman strongly condemns publication of blasphemous caricatures of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on the social network and website Face Book and Youtube.
“Such malicious and insulting contents hurt sentiments of Muslims around the world and cannot be accepted under the garb of freedom of expression. Attacks on sacred religions, places, symbols and personalities are violations of fundamental rights and are not helpful for inter-faith harmony”.
He said Pakistan has always raised its voice against such incidents at all international fora including UN and OIC and in the course of bilateral interaction with various countries. Pakistan has been calling for stern action to prohibit such acts that hurt feelings of Muslims.
He called upon the international community to address this issue as it is extremely sensitive and emotional matter for Muslims across the world.
Replying to a question he held out assurance that Pakistan is making every effort to convey sentiments of our people to the Swedish and other Governments.
Responding to another question he said the Swedish embassy in Islamabad was not closed but it has suspended public dealing.
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End News / IRNA / News Code 1127749
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