Pakistan has strongly protested the alleged violation of its Exclusive Economic Zone by the Indian Navy ship INS Kolkata.
Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan said INS Kolkata carried out provocative and irresponsible actions in Pakistan’s maritime zone, describing them as a clear violation of a bilateral agreement.
He said the Pakistan Navy had been conducting Sea Spark 26 exercises in Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone since September 1, while Indian naval ships and helicopters had repeatedly attempted to enter the exercise area.
According to the Foreign Office, INS Kolkata carried out dangerous and provocative manoeuvres near Pakistan Navy vessels. It said the Indian actions were not routine deployment but a violation of the 1991 bilateral agreement.
The spokesperson said that despite repeated warnings, the Indian vessel continued its irresponsible actions. On September 15, INS Kolkata made a dangerous turn and collided with Pakistan Navy vessel PNS Hunain.
He said PNS Hunain attempted to avoid the collision, but contact occurred between the two vessels. After the incident, INS Kolkata increased its speed and left the area.
The spokesperson said the Indian vessel’s action was highly provocative and could have created a serious crisis. However, the professional and responsible conduct of the Pakistan Navy prevented the situation from escalating.
He added that Pakistan viewed the Indian Navy’s violations with serious concern and accused India of distorting facts in an attempt to escalate the matter diplomatically.
The Foreign Office said India’s actions reflected a deliberate attempt to undermine regional peace and urged it to respect bilateral agreements and act responsibly.
It warned that Pakistan’s current restraint should not be taken for granted in the face of future Indian provocations.
Indian Chargé d’Affaires Summoned to Foreign Office
Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider said India’s chargé d’affaires was summoned to the Foreign Office over the Indian Navy’s provocation, and Pakistan lodged a strong protest.
Pakistan rejected the Indian action and demanded that India strictly comply with international law and bilateral agreements.
The spokesperson said the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi would also submit a protest note to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Pakistan called on the international community to take notice of India’s provocative policy.
