Pakistan has welcomed the United States’ decision to release funds for the F-16 programme, stating that the move reflects the longstanding bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Foreign Office (FO) also raised concerns over advanced weapons left behind in Afghanistan, warning that they are being used against Pakistan.

Addressing a weekly press briefing, FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan termed the US decision to release $397 million for the F-16 program as a positive step.

He emphasised that the F-16 programme has been an integral part of Pakistan-US defence cooperation and reiterated Islamabad’s desire to further strengthen ties with Washington.

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The spokesperson also disclosed that eight undocumented Pakistani nationals were repatriated from the US a day earlier.

“We are facilitating their return and remain in contact with the US administration on this matter,” he said.

However, he noted that only the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) or the Ministry of Interior could provide specific details regarding their identities.

This was the first batch of deported Pakistanis from the US, he added.

In response to a question regarding Afghan nationals in Pakistan seeking relocation to other countries, Khan stated that Pakistan has agreements with several nations willing to accept a specific number of Afghans.

He explained that different countries have set varying deadlines for their relocation.

If these nations fail to take them within the stipulated timeframe, Pakistani authorities will take necessary actions based on relevant policies.

On the issue of abandoned US weapons in Afghanistan, the FO spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding concerns.

“We have repeatedly raised the issue of modern weaponry left behind in Afghanistan. These weapons are now being used by terrorists and pose a direct threat to Pakistan’s security,” he asserted.

Khan underscored that these advanced arms are actively being used to carry out acts of terrorism inside Pakistan, urging international stakeholders to address the matter with urgency.