Pakistan has rejected India's remarks in their entirety regarding situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

At his weekly media briefing in Islamabad today, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tahir Andrabi highlighted the contrast between the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

He said Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir is an illegally annexed, internationally recognized disputed territory whose people have suffered systemic abuses under draconian laws and have been denied their rights, including the right to self-determination. He further stated that contrarily, in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the government is addressing issues arising within the democratic and constitutional framework.

Responding to a question about a statement by India's Water Resources Minister, the Spokesperson warned that any attempt to block water to Pakistan would be a deeply irresponsible act contrary to international obligations and the Indus Waters Treaty.

He said Pakistan will take all necessary measures to safeguard its economy, vital national interests, and the lives of its 250 million people. He called upon India to take responsibility, honour its international commitments, and refrain from statements and actions that could further escalate tensions in the region.

Commenting on the report of an independent international institute, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Tahir Andrabi said the findings are not surprising and corroborate Pakistan's concerns over India's vertical proliferation and strategic capabilities, including canisterization, sea-based systems, and longer-range intercontinental ballistic missiles.

The Spokesperson said Pakistan is not interested in an arms race or matching warheads, arms and ammunition by number. However, it remains mindful of the evolving security environment.

He said Pakistan will continue to take measures essential for preserving strategic stability and deterring any possible Indian aggression.

About Middle East situation, Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan has not lost hope and remains firmly on the path of peace and diplomacy with a degree of optimism, despite the recent escalation in the Middle East and shrinking diplomatic space due to fresh hostilities.