Fri May 23 19:07:50 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
This article reports on Pakistan’s stance regarding relations with India and Afghanistan as of May 23, 2025. Despite recent military clashes in early May stemming from India’s “Operation Sindoor” targeting terror infrastructure after a deadly attack, Pakistan maintains it is committed to the ceasefire agreed upon on May 10th. A Pakistani spokesperson says de-escalation efforts are ongoing via military communication channels and emphasizes Pakistan’s dedication to the Indus Waters Treaty, rejecting any unilateral abrogation. The spokesperson also claimed Pakistan had kept the Kartarpur Corridor open but alleged India had stopped allowing pilgrims passage, and addressed diplomatic relations with Afghanistan, stating engagement continues despite embassies not functioning at the ambassadorial level.
**News Article:**
**Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to India Ceasefire, Addresses Indus Waters Treaty Concerns**
*Islamabad, May 24, 2025* – In a press briefing held yesterday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan reiterated the country’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement reached with India on May 10th, following a period of intense military conflict.
Khan stated that both sides are actively working towards de-escalation through established communication channels between their respective Directors General of Military Operations. He emphasized Pakistan’s desire for engagement to lead to stability and resolution of outstanding issues.
The spokesperson also addressed concerns surrounding the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting Pakistan’s firm position that the treaty cannot be unilaterally suspended or abrogated. “We will continue to work to ensure that Pakistan continues to receive the rightful share of its waters,” Khan declared.
Responding to allegations, Khan claimed that Pakistan has kept the Kartarpur Corridor open despite the recent tensions, while accusing India of preventing pilgrims from utilizing the facility since May 7th.
Turning to Afghanistan, Khan stated that Pakistan is currently consulting with various ministries to determine the future of diplomatic relations. He assured that despite the absence of ambassadors, “very robust interactions” are ongoing between the two countries.
The recent conflict between India and Pakistan was sparked by “Operation Sindoor” on May 7th, during which Indian forces targeted alleged terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This followed a terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 deaths. Pakistan subsequently attempted to attack Indian military bases, leading to a fierce counter-attack by Indian forces before the ceasefire agreement was reached.
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