Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has taken a firm stance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting, warning that the continued use of Afghan soil by terrorist groups remains Pakistan’s biggest security concern.
Speaking on the sidelines of the conference in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Khawaja Asif said terrorist groups, including the banned TTP and BLA, are using Afghan territory to attack Pakistan and its citizens.
Asif said Pakistan’s greatest concern is the continued use of Afghan soil by terrorist organisations such as the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Balochistan Liberation Army. He said Afghan territory is being used for attacks on Pakistan and its people.
The defence minister stressed that credible, verifiable and effective action against terrorist elements present on Afghan soil is now inevitable.
Call for transparency and cooperation
Khawaja Asif said regional peace and stability cannot be achieved through blame-making, hateful politics or rhetoric used for internal political gain. He called for abandoning such approaches and prioritising transparency, trust-building and mutual cooperation.
According to him, constructive engagement is essential for lasting peace in the region.
The minister said ignoring Pakistan’s sacrifices and achievements in ending terrorism is equal to turning a blind eye to facts. He said Pakistan has not relied on empty slogans but has taken practical steps against terrorism.
Khawaja Asif added that Pakistan has proven its responsible commitment to counter-terrorism through unparalleled sacrifices and visible results.
‘Pakistan’s role in regional security unforgettable’
Khawaja Asif said ground realities prove that Pakistan’s services for wider regional security are unforgettable. He said negative propaganda against Pakistan is based on political objectives, hidden agendas and malice.
The minister maintained that Pakistan’s counter-terrorism record reflects its serious and responsible approach toward regional peace.
Asif meets regional defence leaders
On the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Bishkek, Khawaja Asif also held meetings with the defence ministers of China, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan. He also met the deputy defence minister of Iran.
The meetings came as Pakistan continued to highlight regional security concerns and the need for coordinated action against terrorism.
