In a statement, Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said the Afghan side conveyed to Pakistan its intention of carrying out air operation inside its territory opposite Chaman Sector of Pakistan. He said Pakistan responded positively to Afghan government's right to act in its territory. Inspite of very close border operations normally not acceded to by internationally accepted norms and procedures, Pakistan took necessary measures within its territory to safeguard its own troops and population.

He however said that Pakistan Air Force never communicated anything to the Afghan Air Force as alleged by the Afghan Vice President.  He said such statements undermine Pakistan's sincere efforts to play its part in an Afghan owned and Afghan led solution.

The spokesperson said Pakistan remains committed to peace in Afghanistan and shall continue its endeavours towards this end irrespective of the detractors.

Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said it is however important that at this critical juncture, all energies are focused on achieving an inclusive, broad based and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan.

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