Pakistan has reiterated that it has neither closed the door on diplomacy nor sought war with Afghanistan. However, it has urged the Afghan Taliban regime to take concrete action against terror outfits operating from Afghan soil.
During a weekly press briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi addressed prevailing tensions between the two countries. He stressed that diplomacy remains active even during difficult periods.
“Diplomacy continues even during skirmishes,” he said. Moreover, he emphasized that Pakistan desires peace and prosperity for the Afghan people.
Call for Action Against TTP
The spokesperson referred to a recent United Nations Security Council report. According to him, the document supported Pakistan’s position regarding the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The report highlighted that the interim Afghan government continued to provide a permissive environment for certain armed groups. Additionally, it noted that TTP enjoyed operational liberty and support.
As a result, attacks were carried out inside Pakistan. Andrabi stated that the report linked the resurgence of TTP to developments after 2021. Therefore, Pakistan plans to follow up with relevant UN bodies and international stakeholders.
Prime Minister to Attend Gaza Board Meeting
The spokesperson confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace on February 19. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will accompany him.
Pakistan joined the Board of Peace alongside eight Islamic Arab countries. According to Andrabi, the collective platform aims to advocate peace and prosperity for the Palestinian people.
Furthermore, he noted that joint statements from foreign ministers condemned ceasefire violations in Gaza. They also reaffirmed support for a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital.
Response to India and Regional Issues
When asked about recent remarks from India’s External Affairs Ministry following an Islamabad blast, the spokesperson expressed concern. He said such statements appeared to justify terrorism under various pretexts.
He added that these remarks contradicted India’s stated position against terrorism. Moreover, he claimed that evidence existed regarding Pakistan’s response during last year’s brief conflict.
Addressing concerns about violence against Muslims in India, Andrabi stated that several lynching incidents occurred last year. He urged the Indian government to investigate such cases. Additionally, he called on the international community to monitor the situation.
Support for Dialogue on Global Issues
Regarding Iran-US talks, the spokesperson said Pakistan supports dialogue and diplomacy to resolve outstanding issues. In particular, he referred to nuclear negotiations as important.
He also addressed Pakistan’s decision to play a T20 match against India. According to him, the move reflected magnanimity and recognition that sports should not be politicized.
The Foreign Office reiterated that Pakistan Afghanistan diplomacy tensions must not derail communication channels. While Islamabad demands action against militant groups, it continues to prioritize dialogue over conflict.
