Islamabad (TDI): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar revealed on Tuesday that he had received six calls from Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, and made Islamabad’s position clear that Afghan soil must not be used for attacks against Pakistan.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate, DPM Dar said he told the Afghan minister, “We only want one thing that Afghan territory not be used against Pakistan.” He acknowledged that the ongoing security situation had put the Afghan leadership in a difficult position but emphasized the importance of preventing cross-border militancy.
Reflecting on the fallout following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, Dar recalled that Pakistan had initially sought a diplomatic approach with the new Afghan rulers, offering cooperation but warning that any mistakes could have serious consequences. He added that formal ties had remained largely stagnant for four years, but he himself had visited Afghanistan to engage in talks and sign agreements, reiterating Pakistan’s demand for security along the border.
“Violent incidents in Afghanistan have escalated since the Taliban’s return to power,” Dar said, reiterating that Pakistan was committed to fighting terrorism “to the last breath.” He also expressed hope that upcoming talks scheduled for November 6 would help address these security concerns.
Read More: Tense Diplomacy Pays Off: Pakistan, Afghanistan Agree to Continue Ceasefire
The tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been marked by a series of deadly border clashes. The most serious confrontations in years took place recently, in which Pakistan’s military responded to cross-border attacks, killing over 200 Taliban fighters and affiliated militants. However, the clashes also resulted in the martyrdom of 23 Pakistani soldiers.
Earlier this month, Pakistan and Afghanistan had agreed to extend a ceasefire during peace talks in Istanbul, facilitated by Turkiye and Qatar. These talks aimed to stabilize the border situation and ensure long-term peace between the two countries. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for tomorrow to finalize the ceasefire agreement and determine its implementation.
Read More: Why Did Pakistan, Afghanistan Talks Fail and What Could Happen Next
Despite the efforts for peace, Pakistan has expressed frustration over the Taliban regime’s failure to curb militant groups that continue to target Pakistani civilians and security forces. According to Islamabad, the Taliban has failed to act decisively on Pakistan’s repeated requests to rein in these groups, instead providing sanctuary to many of the militants responsible for the attacks.
The diplomatic efforts are set to continue, with Pakistan urging the Taliban regime to take stronger action against terrorism and prevent its soil from being used as a launchpad for attacks on Pakistan.
