Kabul Must Guarantee Peace in Pakistan, says Islamabad

DID Press: Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, warned that Afghanistan must ensure peace and security in Pakistan; otherwise, it will bear the cost of the current situation.

Speaking on a television program, Asif said that terrorist activities and cross-border incursions originating from Afghanistan soil must be completely halted; failure to do so will render agreements between the two countries meaningless.

He emphasized that the guarantee of Pakistan’s peace must come from Kabul and all relevant parties, as ongoing instability would ultimately harm Afghanistan itself.

Pakistani minister stressed that Islamabad will not tolerate any terrorist activities from banned groups, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), and that cross-border attacks will be met with a firm response. He added that Pakistan will not back down from its stance in fighting terrorism.

Asif further said that members of the current delegation in the next round of talks with the Afghan Taliban will participate to review details, and that senior officials may join the delegations if negotiations progress. From November 6, a new mechanism will be established for handling cross-border activities.

The Pakistani official also revealed that the Afghan Taliban demanded 10 billion Pakistani rupees to transfer TTP members but were unwilling to provide any guarantees regarding their commitments. He said: “Pakistan was ready to pay more, but Kabul refused to give its guarantee.”

Finally, Asif highlighted the role of Turkey and Qatar, calling them “trusted friends” of Pakistan. “I trust Turkey and Qatar, but not the Afghan Taliban. I am ready to accept the word of Turkey and Qatar, not the Taliban,” he added.