Afghanistan’s acting Deputy Prime Minister, Maulvi Abdul Kabir, reiterated on Sunday that the Taliban government would not allow Afghan soil to be used against any country, responding to accusations by Pakistan of cross-border attacks.
The statement was made during a meeting between Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), and Maulvi Kabir, along with other cabinet members.
In a declaration issued by the JUI-F, Maulvi Kabir welcomed Maulana Fazl and emphasized the need for both countries to resolve bilateral issues through dialogue and strengthen cooperation in various fields. He acknowledged shared interests between Pakistan and Afghanistan and urged the enhancement of bilateral ties.
Maulvi Kabir highlighted that the JUI-F did not support Pakistan’s decision to repatriate Afghan refugees, expressing hope that Fazl’s visit would contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and dispelling misunderstandings. He expressed gratitude to Pakistan for hosting and facilitating Afghan refugees.
The interim deputy premier emphasized Afghanistan’s desire for regional peace, stability, and strong ties with its neighbors, assuring that Afghan soil would not be used against any nation. He urged factual discussions over rumors and negative propaganda in the media, also requesting Pakistan to provide essential facilities to Afghan refugees.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, leading a delegation, visited Afghanistan as part of efforts to ease tensions between the two countries amidst increased cross-border attacks. The visit holds significance as ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been strained due to terrorist incidents, mainly claimed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Fazl expressed his commitment to negotiations and comprehensive strategies based on ground realities, especially in talks with the TTP. The visit follows an invitation extended by the interim Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan and confirms Fazl’s first visit since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
The discussions are expected to address concerns about the continuous use of Afghan soil against Pakistan. Fazl’s visit occurs against the backdrop of heightened security challenges in Pakistan, with the TTP claiming responsibility for several attacks, including incidents targeting JUI-F members.
