Afghan soil being used against Pakistan: FO

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ISLAMABAD Dec22 (TNS): Pakistan says it has taken up with the Afghan government the issue of Afghan soil constantly being used by elements hostile to Pakistan’s stability and Da’ish safe havens in Afghanistan.

This was stated by Foreign Office Spokesperson, Dr Muhammad Faisal at his weekly news briefing in Islamabad today (Thursday).

Highlighting Pakistan’s role in reconstruction activities in Afghanistan, the Spokesperson said that Pakistan has established three tertiary care hospitals in three different cities of that country.

He said Pakistan has decided to release two hundred and ninety one Indian fishermen in two phases on humanitarian grounds.

He said the fishermen will be released in the first phase on 29th of this month and on 8th of next month.

He reiterated Pakistan’s belief that humanitarian issues should be facilitated instead of being politicized.

The Spokesperson said that visas have been issued to the wife and mother of convicted RAW agent Kulbhushan Jadhav and their meeting would take place in Islamabad.

To another question, Dr Muhammad Faisal said Pakistan is fully committed to the freedom and protection of rights of all minorities living in the country and they are proud Pakistanis having representation in all walks of life.

To a question regarding voting in the United Nations on Jerusalem issue, he said freedom has no price and Pakistan’s vote will be principled.

Replying to a question regarding China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, the spokesperson said it is a plan to fully harness Pakistan’s natural endowments by boosting Pakistan’s industrial capabilities and improving its infrastructure.

He said the projects under this Corridor will be completed in three phases with short term projects by 2020, mid-term by 2025 and long term projects by 2030.