News stories about pressurizing ex-ambassador to United States Dr. Asad Majeed Khan are baseless: FO Spokesperson 

ISLAMABAD, April 25 (SABAH): Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad says the categorical statements from the National Security Committee (NSC) have ruled out any foreign conspiracy behind the change of government in Pakistan and all speculations in this regard should be put to rest. He said that the news stories about pressurizing former ambassador to the United States Dr. Asad Majeed Khan are baseless. He said that the news stories about hiding the diplomatic cable for many days are also baseless. He said that the news stories for hiding the diplomatic cable are baseless, adding that the telegram reached Foreign Office and it was handed over to the concerned officials according to law. FO Spokesperson said that Dr. Asad Majeed Khan himself briefed the NSC and no inquiry was conducted from him. He said that Asad Majeed Khan will assume responsibilities as new ambassador of Pakistan to Belgium, adding that Asad Majeed Khan has reached Brussels for new assignment.

He was responding to various questions during his news briefing in Islamabad on Monday. He said two consecutive meetings of the NSC have concluded that there was no foreign conspiracy and their conclusion was based on assessments from all stakeholders. He said we should now get back to conducting diplomacy and concentrating on our important relations in the best interest of Pakistan.

He said our core focus should be improving our relationships with our partners and the United States is one of the key partner of Pakistan and both sides are keen to build on the long standing relations and as well as further strengthen and diversify our relations.

Answering another question, the Spokesperson said Pakistan has the full capability to defend its interests as well as promote its stability and security. He, however, said irresponsible comments should be avoided as there is an element of trust and confidentiality, which is central to conducting effective diplomacy for a country and such episodes carry the potential of undermining our diplomacy and complicating our external relations.

Replying to a question, Asim Iftikhar said Pakistan and Afghanistan are brotherly countries and regard terrorism as a serious threat for peace and development. He emphasized on cooperation between the two countries to curb cross-border terrorism in an effective manner.

He said Islamabad looks forward to continue close engagements with Kabul for long term peace and stability in Afghanistan and to create an environment conducive to regional stability, economic cooperation and connectivity.