Don't the CIA, Pentagon give input for US foreign policy, Shah Mehmood snubs foreign journalist over sarcastic question
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ISLAMABAD – Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi stressed on Monday that Pakistan’s interests are the first priority as the foreign policy will begin and end at the country.
Speaking at his maiden press conference in Islamabad, Qureshi maintained that Pakistan is facing immense challenges and the government is determined for development.
PTI Government would pursue a bi-partisan approach to foreign policy issues and take the opposition on board in addressing these challenges, he added.
The Foreign Minister said that efforts are being made to isolate Pakistan but the government wishes to maintain peace and stability in the region.He said it would be his endeavor to build national consensus on foreign policy. He pointed out that some forces have been pushing Pakistan towards isolation in the absence of a regular foreign minister.
Qureshi declared that he would consult with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and also the former foreign ministers Hina Rabbani Khar and Khawaja Asif for their suggestions on foreign policy especially the forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly. ------------------------------
Replying to a query, Qureshi categorically said, “There are pre-conceived notions about where the foreign policy of Pakistan is made. Let me be clear: The foreign policy will be made here at the Foreign Office.”
He said he would engage with all institutions including national security institutions for their input, similar to the policy across the world.
“Don’t you seek input from CIA and Pentagon? I am aware of their working and I will work for the betterment of Pakistan,” Qureshi told a foreign journalist who raised a question on the alleged interference of other institutions in formulation of foreign policy.
The Foreign Minister said he would focus on bridging the trust deficit between Pakistan and regional countries and emphasized on putting Pakistan first while fostering better relations with neighbouring countries.
