Tahir Andrabi

Pakistan and the United States are holding trade negotiations in Washington to address US tariffs on Pakistani exports and finalize a bilateral trade agreement. Pakistan secured a reduction of tariffs from 29% to 19% in prior talks, but a US Supreme Court ruling invalidated the IEEPA-based tariffs, leading to a temporary 10% global tariff set to expire in July. Pakistan also faces a proposed 10% additional tariff under Section 301 investigations.

Pakistan's Foreign Office rejected India's condemnation of its recent strikes against terrorists along the Afghan border, calling India's statement 'preposterous' and accusing New Delhi of interfering in regional affairs and supporting terrorism. The operation, named Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, targeted terrorist hideouts after an attack on Pakistani security personnel in Karachi. India's Ministry of External Affairs labeled Pakistan's actions a 'blatant act of aggression' and a threat to regional stability.

Pakistan, as a mediator, states that technical talks between the US and Iran will resume next week, with possible start dates on Tuesday, Monday, or Wednesday, according to spokesperson Tahir Andrabi. The location of the discussions remains unspecified.

Pakistan's Foreign Office reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy following the Islamabad MoU and Lucerne Summit. The spokesperson highlighted international recognition of Pakistan's role in promoting regional peace and de-escalation efforts.

Pakistan's Foreign Office warned that India's attempt to block water essential to Pakistan would have 'far-reaching consequences' and could constitute an act of war under the UN Charter. The warning followed Indian Water Minister CR Patil's statement that 'not a single drop of water will go to Pakistan' in the coming years, which Pakistan claims violates international obligations and bilateral agreements.

Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry contacted Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Pakistan's envoy in Somalia to discuss the release of 11 Pakistani seamen kidnapped by Somali pirates on April 21. The government is coordinating with the Foreign Office and the ship owner, but the situation remains grave due to the ship's explosive cargo and logistical challenges.

The US and Iran have offered conflicting messages over a potential deal, while Pakistan remains optimistic as a key mediator in talks between the two countries. A deal could be reached soon, according to the Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson. The likelihood of an imminent agreement is uncertain.