Interaction between PM advisor, Israeli official ‘certainly, without government authorization’: FO

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Friday said he had “not seen the report or any information on a meeting” between Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, an advisor to the prime minister, and an Israeli representative, adding that “if such a meeting or interaction took place, it was, certainly, without authorization by the government.”

A statement later circulated to the media clarified that Khan, who visited London “at his own expense” to lead a delegation of 31 Pakistani tourism representatives to the World Travel Market, had encountered a group of Israeli individuals who “visited the Pakistan Pavilion unannounced and met the Pakistani delegation without introducing themselves.”

“Despite this unexpected encounter, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan remained focused on his mission as a proud Pakistani and true patriot, dedicated to promoting a positive and progressive tourism narrative for Pakistan across the world,” the statement said.

While responding to speculation that the reported encounter signaled any shift toward the Abraham Accords, Andrabi dismissed the suggestion.

“I do not think it is fair to link this with the broader issue of Abraham Accords or the recognition of Israel,” he said. “Such linkage is too far-fetched, and I would request our distinguished media personnel not to venture into such speculation.”

Pakistan’s long-standing foreign policy rejects recognition of Israel, a stance it links to its “steadfast and unwavering” support for the Palestinian cause.

Islamabad consistently urges an immediate halt to Israeli military actions and reaffirms its commitment to the creation of an independent, sovereign and contiguous Palestinian state along the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

The policy is also codified in the declaration printed on Pakistani passports: “This passport is valid for all countries of the world except Israel.”