Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has stated that since 2022, thousands of Pakistani military personnel and civilians have lost their lives in terrorist incidents linked to Afghanistan.
He asserted that Pakistan’s sole expectation is that Afghan territory should not, under any circumstances, be used against Pakistan.
Responding to a speech by Maulana Fazlur Rehman in the National Assembly, Mr Asif remarked that although he considers the Maulana a younger brother, he accords him the respect due to an elder.
Addressing claims that Pakistan had failed to engage with the Afghan leadership, he noted that he had personally visited Afghanistan on two occasions and held detailed discussions with the country’s senior leadership.
According to the Defence Minister, Afghan leaders verbally agreed with Pakistan’s position but were reluctant to formalise these understandings through a written agreement. He further revealed that, in addition to meetings in Kabul, extensive discussions were held with Afghan representatives in Türkiye and Qatar. Senior Qatari officials also participated in these engagements, while the Afghan delegation was led by the son of Mullah Omar.
Mr Asif reiterated that Pakistan’s primary demand is that Afghan soil must not be used for activities directed against Pakistan. He also highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding support for Afghan refugees over the past four to five decades, noting that the country had extended every possible form of assistance during that period.
The Defence Minister added that, through Pakistan’s efforts and by the grace of Allah, the security situation and atmosphere of stability in the Gulf region are also showing signs of improvement.
