By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a recent development, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, has strongly criticized India’s seizure of commercial equipment intended for Pakistan. In response to media inquiries, Baloch denounced the Indian media’s portrayal of the incident as a misrepresentation of facts, emphasizing the legitimate nature of the transaction.
According to Baloch, the confiscated item, identified as a commercial lathe machine, was being imported by a Karachi-based commercial entity for use in supplying parts to Pakistan’s automobile industry. She clarified that the equipment’s specifications clearly indicated its intended commercial purpose, and the transaction was being conducted through transparent banking channels with all necessary documentation in place.
Expressing dismay over the seizure, Baloch asserted that the relevant private entities are actively pursuing the matter to address what they perceive as an unjustified action. She condemned India’s handling of the situation as an example of overreach and interference with free trade, cautioning against the arbitrary assumption of policing roles by nations with questionable credentials.
Furthermore, Baloch highlighted the incident as indicative of a broader trend of certain states flouting international norms and resorting to arbitrary measures in contravention of established international law. Pakistan’s stance underscores the importance of upholding principles of free trade and respecting the sovereignty of nations in commercial dealings.
The condemnation by Pakistan, coming from an official spokesperson, adds another layer of tension to the already complex relations between the neighboring countries. It signals a potential escalation in diplomatic discourse and highlights the need for both parties to engage in constructive dialogue to address such disputes in a manner consistent with international norms.
