Decision to release Indian pilot Abhinandan taken to de-escalate situation: Qureshi

Qureshi said India had created a tense situation in the region violating Pakistan airspace.

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday said that Pakistan wants peace in the region and decision to release Indian Fighter Pilot Abhinandan Varthman is a gesture to de-escalate the situation. In an interview with Cable News Network (CNN), Qureshi said India had created a tense situation in the region violating Pakistan airspace and international laws. The minister said Pakistan never wanted escalation as Prime Minister Imran Khan has several times said that if India takes one step, we will take two. He said Pakistan will not allow any organization or individual to use its soil against any country including India. He added if India has solid evidence about Pulwama incident, it should sit and talk over it. Qureshi reiterated that United Nations and the US can play a significant role in de-escalation of tensions in the region. Regarding Afghanistan, Foreign Minister said Pakistan is working for peace and reconciliation in that country. He said President Trump and other high officials have acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan s efforts toward peace in Afghanistan. The minister said the incumbent government wants to concentrate on fixing the economic issues of the country and bold measures have been taken to eradicate corruption from Pakistan.