Pakistan has expressed serious concern over the rise in terrorist activities since the Afghan Taliban took control in Kabul, reiterating its expectation that the interim Afghan authorities will take decisive action against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) elements operating from Afghan soil.
During the weekly media briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi stated that Pakistan has shown restraint despite escalating cross-border terrorism but emphasized that there can be no leniency for any group supporting or facilitating terrorist activities.
The spokesperson noted that the wave of terrorism witnessed in Pakistan in recent years corresponds with the period following the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban. “There has been a noticeable increase in terrorist incidents since the Afghan regime change. Pakistan has exercised patience, but those who sponsor or protect terrorists deserve no sympathy,” he said.
Mr. Andrabi further clarified that while Pakistan appreciates the efforts of friendly countries in facilitating engagement with the Afghan authorities, Islamabad’s position on talks with terrorist outfits remains unchanged. “We have held dialogues with the Afghan Taliban, and we acknowledge the constructive role played by partner nations. However, we want to make it absolutely clear: Pakistan will not hold negotiations with any terrorist group,” he asserted.
Highlighting the composition of the threat, the spokesperson said that terrorist groups operating against Pakistan largely consist of Afghan-based networks. He emphasized that the responsibility now lies with the Afghan Taliban to address these elements within their territory. “The terrorists targeting Pakistan are primarily Afghan groups. We expect the Afghan Taliban to take credible and effective action against TTP terrorists present in their region,” he added.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, the Foreign Office stressed that counterterrorism cooperation remains essential to regional stability and that Pakistan will continue to safeguard its national security interests through all necessary measures.
