Pakistan on Thursday dismissed the claims that it had shown a willingness to the United States for allowing a \u201cregional drone hub\u201d on its soil as part of its continuing dialogue on counterterrorism.
\n\u201cThere was no discussion on the topic (regional drone hub). It was not on the agenda and it was not discussed and, therefore, there is no need for speculation in that matter,\u201d said Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Baloch said during the weekly media briefing.
\nInstead, she explained, Pakistan was very encouraged by the recent dialogue on counterterrorism with the US.
\n\u201cIt was a good opportunity for the two sides to discuss counterterrorism issues, as the challenge of terrorism is a challenge for the entire world. The topics that we covered included cooperation at multilateral forums, cyber security, countering violent extremism. Of course, the discussion was also held on capacity-building matters, especially in anti-money laundering. As you know, Pakistan has already developed a very robust mechanism following the FATF process to curb money laundering and financial flows to terrorist organisations,\u201d she said.
\nThe spokesperson underlined that Islamabad and Washington were old friends and their engagement with each other on all matters was based on the interest of both countries.
\nThe spokesperson was also asked about the Indian reports of Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial skipping an SCO meeting in New Delhi.
\n\u201cDue to his unavoidable commitments on the scheduled meeting dates, the Honourable Chief Justice of Pakistan will not be able to participate in the SCO Meeting of the Chief Justices of the Supreme Courts scheduled from 10-12 March 202. He has accordingly conveyed his regrets to his Indian counterpart who is the current chair\/host of the meeting,\u201d clarified Baloch.
\nWhen asked about the future SCO meetings and whether Pakistan would attend, she said, \u201cI would like to say that Pakistan considers Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to be an important organisation, where Pakistan regularly participates and we will continue to participate in all activities and constructively contribute to its outcomes. Now, regarding the in-person participation that you have asked about, at this stage we do not have final decisions.\u201d
\nTo queries on a US intelligence report submitted in the US Congressional hearing which said that it apprehends increased tension between India and Pakistan and India and China with the possibility of a conflict between them, the spokeswoman said Pakistan had consistently advocated peace and dialogue in South Asia.
\n\u201cOur foreign policy is based on building partnerships for peace, friendship and prosperity in the region and beyond. We desire friendly ties with all our neighbors. We have also advocated a constructive engagement and a result-oriented dialogue with India on all outstanding issues including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir. Unfortunately, India\u2019s unabated hostility and retrogressive steps have vitiated the regional environment and impeded the prospects for peace and cooperation,\u201d she said.
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