Pak will not allow 'hot pursuit' of terrorists inside its territory: FO

Islamabad, Dec. 11 (ANI): Pakistan has ruled out the possibility of allowing foreign troops to conduct military operations inside its geographical territory, saying it would not allow any one to cross the 'red lines'.

Addressing a briefing here, Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said no foreign military would be allowed to carry out any offensive on the country's soil in the name of "hot pursuit."

"I think we have already articulated our position, and this is one of our red lines. There is simply no question of allowing any hot pursuit," The Daily Times quoted Basit, as saying.

"Pakistan's armed forces are capable of undertaking operations against militants and terrorists on their own, and we do not really need any assistance in this context," he added.

Referring to the latest civil nuclear deal between India and Russia, Basit said India's 'ambitious nuclear weapons programme' could prove detrimental for regional peace and stability.

Responding to a question, he denied any back-channel diplomacy between India and Pakistan, and added that Islamabad was not aware of any withdrawal of troops by India from Kashmir.

He said Pakistan is eager to resume peace talks with New Delhi as soon as possible, but blamed India for not showing any interest for the same.

"The ball is clearly in India's court," Basit said. (ANI)