ISLAMABAD: Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani said that the Afghan government has arrested individuals involved in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and has communicated this information to Pakistani authorities. Jilani shared this information during a press conference at the Foreign Office, addressing questions about cross-border terrorism.
This statement comes amid a surge in terror activities across Pakistan, particularly since the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended a ceasefire agreement in November 2022. There are growing concerns regarding cross-border terrorism involving elements based in Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s military leadership and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have both expressed concerns over the presence of “safe havens” and operational freedom for militants in Afghanistan. They have called for action against such elements and urged Kabul to address the issue.
In response to these allegations, Taliban representatives have asserted that Afghanistan is committed to preventing the use of its territory for attacks against other countries.
According to recent reports, Afghanistan’s supreme leader warned Taliban members against conducting attacks abroad. Nevertheless, Afghan authorities later claimed that they neutralized dozens of banned Islamic State (IS) militants who were active in Afghanistan over the past years.
Efforts to address the issue of militancy have led to negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. United Nations reports have highlighted the danger posed by groups like TTP and their provision of NATO-caliber weaponry by terrorists like the IS group. These groups continue to pose significant threats in conflict zones and neighboring countries.
Caretakers responsible for free and fair elections
Regarding elections, the Foreign Minister clarified that the caretaker government’s primary responsibility is to ensure free and fair elections. He emphasized that while the caretaker government’s role is to facilitate a conducive environment for elections, the actual task of holding the elections lies with the Election Commission.
He expressed confidence that the Pakistani cricket team will be provided complete security during the upcoming ODI World Cup in India.
Regarding relations with India, Jilani stated that talks with India would follow Pakistan’s principled position. He stressed that any resolution to the Kashmir issue should align with the expectations of the people of the region and United Nations resolutions.
