Pakistan warns against Afghan soil use for terrorism

Pakistan has strongly condemned the use of Afghan territory for attacks against its soil, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi also updated on Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent diplomatic visits to the European Union and Moscow.

The Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized that Afghan soil continues to be exploited by terrorists targeting Pakistan. “Afghan citizens are constantly being attacked and attacks are launched from Afghan soil,” Andrabi said, adding that Pakistan has suspended trade with Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s support for terrorist activities.

Pakistan maintains a policy of border closure and strict trade regulation, demanding that the Afghan Taliban curb citizens involved in cross-border terrorism.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar participated in the fourth European Union Indo-Pacific Forum, engaging with EU officials on a range of issues. He held bilateral meetings with Hungarian, Danish, Slovenian, and Dutch foreign ministers.

During the visit, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Hungary on student scholarships, reflecting Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen educational and cultural ties.

Earlier, Ishaq Dar attended the SCO Heads of Government Meeting in Moscow on November 17-18. He met with Russian leaders, including the president, prime minister, and foreign minister, to discuss relations with Afghanistan. The SCO subsequently issued a joint statement on economic cooperation.

Regional and International Issues

The Foreign Office also condemned Israeli actions in the occupied West Bank, including the desecration of Al-Aqsa Mosque. Andrabi highlighted human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir, calling on the international community to take notice of population changes and ongoing arrests.

Regarding Bangladesh, the spokesperson said the death sentence of Hasina Wajid is an internal matter governed by the country’s constitution and legal system.

US and Turkish involvement

Andrabi welcomed statements by the US President regarding the Indian prime minister and ongoing regional stability, calling the comments credible. Pakistan also acknowledged Turkey’s efforts in mediation, which were postponed due to the vice president’s foreign visits.

Communication channels remain open between Pakistani and Afghan embassies, and Pakistan continues to appreciate the role of the US in regional diplomacy. On the Gaza resolution, Pakistan’s stance was aligned in some areas with China’s position.