ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized Afghanistan for failing to fulfil its responsibilities as a neighbouring and fraternal country. He expresses strong disapproval of Afghanistan’s disregard for crucial commitments. It made in the Doha peace agreement, particularly its pledge to prevent the utilization of Afghan territory for terrorist operations.
The Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, criticized Afghanistan just a day after the Pakistani armed forces expressed serious concerns about the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) finding safe havens and enjoying freedom of movement within Afghanistan.
The statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) followed the Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir’s visit to Quetta Garrison, where he received a briefing on a recent attack in Zhob Cantt, Balochistan. Nine soldiers lost their lives in the attack, while security forces killed five terrorists in retaliation. Unfortunately, a civilian woman was also killed in the crossfire, and five other civilians sustained injuries.
In a tweet, the defence minister accused Afghanistan of failing to fulfil its obligations. As a neighboring country and disregarding the commitments outlined in the Doha agreement. He also stating that Afghanistan is not upholding its role as a brotherly nation or safeguarding the peace agreement.
According to Khawaja Asif, Pakistan has generously hosted around five to six million Afghan refugees for several decades, ensuring their rights are protected. However, he expresses concern that terrorists who have cause harm to Pakistani citizens find shelter in Afghanistan. The minister warned that the current situation cannot continue and affirmed that Pakistan will utilize all available resources and measures, guided by Allah, to safeguard its territory and citizens.
In another tweet, the minister called upon those individuals who attend PTI government assemblies and provided briefings, highlighting the suppose benefits of allowing the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to operate from Afghanistan into Pakistan. He suggests that these individuals should also engage with the families of those who sacrifice their lives on a daily basis.
