While addressing Afghan Taliban Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, Pakistan’s Defense Minister warned hi to respect past alliances and avoid supporting actions against Pakistan.

Khawaja Asif highlighted the historical ties between Pakistan and the Haqqani network. He noted that Haqqani’s families had been hospitable for decades and that both sides fought together against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan.

“You were our guest. We shared a common goal, one given to both of us by America,” the Defense Minister said, emphasizing the mutual history of cooperation.

Warning against supporting Pakistan’s enemies

Khawaja Asif delivered a stern message about recent alliances: “You gave shelter to our killers. You became allies of those who stained our streets with blood. I met you in Kabul and requested you not to support the enemies. You asked for money—we were ready to give it—but there was no guarantee.”

He urged Haqqani to honor the legacy of the network’s elder, saying, “The person you are called Haqqani was a great elder. Keep that name, don’t let your land be used against us.”

Call for respecting tradition

The Defense Minister reinforced the importance of culture, religion, and tradition in fostering trust: guests must respect the household that shelters them. “Tradition, culture, and religion teach us to seek the welfare of the house in which we take shelter,” Khawaja Asif said.