Amid growing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the country seeks good relations with Afghanistan but considers terrorism the only obstacle in bilateral ties.
The ministry’s spokesperson emphasized that Afghanistan must choose between Pakistan and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Shafqat Ali Khan, the spokesperson, said: “Afghanistan is a close neighbor. We want a brotherly relationship, as it should be between two good neighbors. I have been in briefings repeatedly highlighting that the core impediment remains the sanctuaries enjoyed by the terrorists there. So, the Prime Minister’s message is very clear. Kabul has to select Pakistan or TTP.”
Moeen Gul Samkani, a political analyst, said: “This statement, that we must choose between Pakistan and TTP, is not a normal matter. TTP is not ours, and when it is not ours, it is clearly Pakistan’s. Why should we make a choice regarding Pakistani Taliban? It is Pakistan that must decide whether to side with TTP or distance itself from it.”
Meanwhile, Rana Sanaullah, political adviser to Pakistan’s Prime Minister, referring to his country’s security concerns regarding Afghanistan and its defense pact with Saudi Arabia, warned that any attack on Pakistan would be considered an attack on Saudi Arabia.
He said: “That is exactly how it will be. A very significant change is on the way. Of course, there are still issues that if revealed too early will lose their value. But it is clear that an attack on Pakistan will mean an attack on Saudi Arabia. Therefore, terrorism and proxy war are no longer only against Pakistan, but also against Saudi Arabia.”
On the other hand, Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, in an interview with Pakistan’s Center for Security Studies and Research, urged the country’s Prime Minister to refrain from making provocative statements about Afghanistan.
He stressed that Afghanistan does not support insecurity in Pakistan and added that accusations and the use of force are in neither side’s interest.
Mujahid said: “They should not make remarks that damage the people and the atmosphere. Such statements are easy to make. If the Prime Minister or senior officials of a country speak of war or threats, we cannot correct them or prevent them, because in that case, our will is weakened.”
These rising tensions come as earlier, during his visit to Kabul, China’s Foreign Minister emphasized resolving issues between Afghanistan and Pakistan through understanding and dialogue.
