India's 'provocative, unfounded` statements not conducive to peace in region, warns Pakistan

Reacting strongly to Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar's "provocative" statement, Pakistan has warned that there must not be any "miscalculation" about the nation's ability to defend itself and thwart any aggression.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tasneem Aslam said in a statement that the allegations leveled against Pakistan by Parrikar were "unfounded" and "not conducive to peace in the region," reported the Dawn. Accusing Pakistan of aiding and abetting cross-border terrorism, Parrikar had said that a "strong response" was required to reduce the "blatant attempts" for once and for all.

Parrikar's statement followed his first official visit to Indian-held Kashmir to review the security situation there.

India had earlier called off foreign secretary-level talks with Pakistan in August after the Pakistani envoy met Kashmiri separatists before meeting the Indian counterpart.