'Not related to defence': Govt responds to Fazl's remarks about Makkah pact countries' meeting in Tehran

Federal ministers on Thursday responded to Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s remarks regarding a recent huddle in Tehran comprising the Makkah defence pact countries and Iran. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the meeting was not related to defence. Hence, Asif said his presence was not required, while Naqvi explained the reasons for his participation. The meeting brought together top officials from Iran and member countries of the Makkah Defence Alliance — including Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army…