Pakistan terms Indian criticism on its institutions baseless

24 Apr, 2014

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday said that the Indian criticism on its institutions was baseless and those involved in the propaganda should first look into their internal matters.

Foreign Office spokespersons Tasnim Aslam in her weekly briefing, said negative reporting in connection with Hamid Mir's episode was done.

She condemned attack on Hamid Mir and prayed for his speedy recovery. Commenting on election process in Indian Kashmir she said the election could not be the alternative of Kashmiris' right to self-determination.

She said cooperation between Iran and India regarding energy was their bilateral matter.

Replying to a question on Pakistan-Iran energy cooperation, particularly import of electricity, Tasnim Aslam said international sanctions did not hurt that agreement as purchase of electricity from Iran was government-to-government agreement.

She rejected the impression about termination of Pak-Iran gas pipeline project and said there were funding issues.

About sanctions on this project, she said building of extensive infrastructure and international financing took it to a category where international sanctions were applicable.

Responding to a question about Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's visit to Iran, the spokesperson said it would take place before 15th of next month.

She said process of meetings between both the countries officials' was in progress in order to make the visit substantial.

She said visit of Iranian Foreign Minister was not on cards, while the Interior Minister would visit Pakistan soon.

About the visit of US Special Representative for Pakistan and Afghanistan James Dobbins, the spokesperson said he would be holding meetings with the Prime Minister, Advisor on Foreign Affairs and National Security, Interior Minister and Chief of Army Staff.

She said Pakistani Embassy in Washington during the past few months had extensively engaged James Dobbins, who was a US focal person.

Tasnim Aslam said Dobbins would be sharing views with Pakistani leaders on matters of regional security, Afghanistan and bilateral ties.

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