Pakistan has categorically denied reports that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar shared details of Iran's nuclear programme with United States Senator Marco Rubio during a recent meeting. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that the reports are completely baseless and that no such exchange of information took place.
Official Denial
In a press briefing on Thursday, Andrabi said, 'Pakistan rejects reports of the deputy prime minister exchanging any kind of information about Iran's nuclear programme.' He emphasized that Pakistan maintains a principled position on non-proliferation and supports peaceful uses of nuclear energy under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards.
Background of the Reports
The rumors emerged following a meeting between Dar and Rubio on the sidelines of a diplomatic event. Unnamed sources had claimed that Dar provided sensitive details about Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for US concessions on economic aid. However, the Foreign Office dismissed these as 'malicious propaganda.'
Pakistan's Stance on Iran Nuclear Issue
Pakistan has historically advocated for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Iran nuclear impasse. Islamabad maintains close ties with both Tehran and Washington and often plays a mediating role. Analysts suggest that such unverified reports could harm Pakistan's diplomatic balancing act.
The denial comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and ongoing negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and called for responsible reporting on sensitive matters.
