Pakistan and Afghanistan are involved in constructive talks to peacefully resolve ongoing border tensions, the Foreign Office announced on Friday.
During his weekly press briefing, FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan has consistently alerted Kabul to the presence of the militant group Fitna al-Khawarij on Afghan soil.
He voiced serious concern regarding what he described as “provocative attacks” by Taliban forces along the border from October 11 to 15, which he said were effectively repelled by Pakistan in self-defence.
The spokesperson reported that Taliban forces and the terrorist hideouts they utilized sustained significant damage. He clarified that Pakistan’s retaliatory measures were directed solely at militant elements and not civilians, adding that a 48-hour ceasefire was subsequently implemented from 6pm on October 15 at the Taliban’s request.
Khan confirmed that both nations are now engaged in productive dialogue aimed at a peaceful settlement. Pakistan anticipates that the Taliban government will undertake concrete steps to act against terrorist groups and prevent Afghan territory from being used for terrorism, aligning with its prior commitments.
He also reminded that Pakistan has hosted more than four million Afghan refugees for over forty years and will continue to manage the status of foreigners within its borders according to its national laws and international standards.
“Pakistan desires a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan,” Khan stated, expressing hope for a future where the Afghan people live freely under a government that is inclusive and representative.
The spokesperson also raised Pakistan’s strong objections to a recent joint statement issued by India and Afghanistan, describing its mentions of Jammu and Kashmir as a clear breach of United Nations resolutions and international law.
Furthermore, he dismissed the Afghan acting foreign minister’s assertion that terrorism is an internal problem for Pakistan, highlighting that Islamabad has already provided Kabul with detailed information about active terrorist networks operating from Afghan territory.
“Afghanistan cannot disclaim its responsibility to prevent its territory from being used for terrorist activities,” Khan concluded. “Peace and stability are a shared obligation.”
