Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) has rejected the joint statement by India and the United States, calling it “one-sided, misleading, and contrary to diplomatic norms.” The statement, issued after a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, accused Pakistan of supporting extremism and referenced the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Pakistan’s Response to the Allegations
FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan criticized the statement during a weekly press briefing. He expressed surprise at the Pakistan-specific reference, emphasizing Pakistan’s ongoing cooperation with the US on counter-terrorism.
“Such references cannot mask India’s role in terrorism, subversion, and extra-judicial killings,” Khan said.
The spokesperson also highlighted India’s refusal to comply with UN Security Council resolutions, which he identified as the primary cause of regional instability. He condemned the statement’s failure to acknowledge the human rights abuses in Jammu and Kashmir.
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Pakistan’s Commitment to Counter-Terrorism
Khan reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to fighting terrorism. He also vowed to continue efforts against terrorism, including acts by foreign elements.
Concern Over Military Imbalance
The FO expressed deep concern over the US decision to increase military sales to India. “This transfer of military technology disturbs the strategic balance in the region and undermines peace in South Asia,” Khan stated. He urged international partners to take a more objective view of regional peace and security issues, avoiding biased positions.
US Extradition of Mumbai Attack Suspect
President Trump announced the US approval of the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian citizen accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai attacks that left 166 people dead. Rana had previously been sentenced to US federal prison for supporting the banned group Lashkar-e-Taiba, which India accuses of orchestrating the attacks.
The US Supreme Court recently rejected Rana’s petition against extradition, clearing the way for him to face charges in India. Trump referred to him as “one of the plotters” of the attacks and said he would face justice in India.
Sikh Separatists Issue Strains US-India Relations
The issue of Sikh separatists demanding an independent Khalistan state has also added tension to US-India relations. Although Trump did not directly respond to a question about Sikh separatists during the press conference, he emphasized the cooperation between the US and India on crime.
Since 2023, alleged Indian targeting of Sikh separatists in the US and Canada has further strained ties. Washington recently charged a former Indian intelligence officer in a failed US plot, and India has stated that it is investigating the allegations.
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