We’re considering complete closure of Airspace to India – Pakistan PM

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Imran Khan, said the country is considering a complete closure of its air space to India and blocking Indian land trade to Afghanistan via Pakistan.

The minister for science and technology, Fawad Chaudhry, made this known on Tuesday through his Twitter.

“PM is considering a complete closure of Air Space to India, a complete ban on use of Pakistan Land routes for Indian trade to Afghanistan was also suggested in cabinet meeting.

“Legal formalities for these decisions are under consideration, Modi has started we will finish.’’.

However, officials were not immediately available for comment.

Pakistan had reopened its airspace in mid-July after a nearly four month closure imposed in February after an attack by a Pakistan-based militant group in Indian-controlled Kashmir led to clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

Each country carried out air strikes on the other’s territory and warplanes fought a dogfight above the disputed Kashmir region in which an Indian fighter jet was shot down.

The months of restrictions forced long detours that cost airlines millions of dollars.

Modi’s surprise move in August 2019, to withdraw the special privileges of Muslim-majority Kashmir has also increased tension with Pakistan.