India’s refusal to play in Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has prompted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government to adopt a firm stance against India.
On Thursday, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch clarified that there is no Track-II or backdoor diplomacy underway between Pakistan and India regarding cricket. During her weekly briefing, she noted that Pakistan and the United States share a longstanding, friendly relationship based on mutual respect and non-interference, and dismissed rumors spread with ulterior motives.
Ms. Baloch referenced the arrest of Indian officer Kulbhushan Yadav in Balochistan, expressing Pakistan’s concerns over India’s activities in the region. She also addressed visa issues, stating that Pakistan opposes a UAE visa ban on Pakistani citizens and is in ongoing discussions with the UAE government.
Regarding Pakistan-China relations, Ms. Baloch emphasized Islamabad’s commitment to safeguarding Chinese nationals, businesses, and projects in Pakistan, reaffirming that attempts to disrupt the partnership would not be tolerated. “We are determined to protect Pakistan from all internal and external threats,” she affirmed.
She urged Afghanistan’s administration to act against terrorist groups operating within its borders and warned against testing Pakistan’s patience. Additionally, she highlighted a shared stance with Iran against the presence of terrorist groups along their border.
In an exclusive interview with Samaa TV, Ms. Baloch stated that the PCB remains in contact with the ICC concerning India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. She further noted that Pakistan had lodged repeated protests with Afghanistan over terrorism originating from Afghan soil, stressing that the Afghan administration must take action.
Ms. Baloch concluded by asserting the strength of Pakistan-China relations, emphasizing that questioning this strategic partnership was unfounded.
