The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has expressed concern regarding the recent decision by the United States to impose tariffs on various countries, stating that this could have far-reaching effects on global trade.

During a weekly media briefing, spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan emphasized that Pakistan is closely monitoring the situation and hopes for a mutually beneficial resolution.

Khan noted that global trade is interconnected, and unilateral measures such as tariffs could disrupt trade balances.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for policies that are transparent, fair, and beneficial for all parties involved.

Previously, US President Donald Trump announced sweeping reciprocal tariffs on dozens of nations, including Pakistan, citing years of what he called unfair trade practices.

The spokesperson stated that Pakistan is committed to promoting international economic partnerships and opposes any policy that could lead to trade imbalances or harm the economies of developing nations.

Pakistan has urged the US to resolve the issue in a manner that serves the interests of all parties, in order to maintain stability and confidence in the global trading system.

Global UGRAD Program for Pakistani students

Regarding the termination of the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) for Pakistani students, the spokesperson stated that this decision marks the end of a 15-year partnership that played a crucial role in enhancing educational and cultural ties, as well as strengthening bilateral relations centered on education, science, technology, and public engagement.

June 2025 conference on Palestine

The MOFA reiterated its strong support for a high-level international conference focused on the peaceful resolution of the Palestine conflict and the implementation of a two-state solution.

The spokesperson expressed hope that the conference would take effective actions to restore hope for peace and justice.

Khan expressed his gratitude towards France and Saudi Arabia for co-chairing preparatory meetings for the June 2025 conference.

“We sincerely hope that the conference will take actions aligned with its purpose and restore hopes for peace and justice,” he said.

Khan emphasized that prior to the conference, “a complete ceasefire should be enforced, the blockade of Gaza lifted, humanitarian access ensured, and safety provided for civilians and humanitarian staff.”

He condemned any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians or annex their land, calling for such actions to be unconditionally rejected and effectively prevented.

The spokesperson also “denounced the ongoing aggression and atrocities by Israeli occupying forces, expressing sorrow over the recent deaths of 15 Palestinian emergency and civil defense workers due to direct gunfire.”

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