This morning Pakistan undertook a series of military strikes in the Sistan and Baluchestan province of Iran, the statement said.

"The sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest which is paramount and cannot be compromised," it added.

"Pakistan fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

"Iran is a brotherly country and the people of Pakistan have great respect and affection for the Iranian people. We have always emphasized dialogue and cooperation in confronting common challenges including the menace of terrorism and will continue to endevaour to find joint solutions," it concluded.