Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday renewed his call for stronger ties with Afghanistan but stressed that Kabul’s administration must first curb the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), warning that double standards would not be tolerated.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, PM Shehbaz described Afghanistan as a “brotherly neighbor” and expressed Pakistan’s sincere wish to enhance economic and trade relations with Kabul.
“Regrettably, the TTP is operating from Afghanistan, conducting terror attacks, and killing innocent people in Pakistan. This cannot continue,” he stated.
He emphasized that Pakistan seeks good relations with Afghanistan but considers the TTP’s actions from Afghan soil a red line. “We have communicated to the Afghan government that TTP attacks against Pakistan are unacceptable.”
The prime minister urged the Afghan government to implement a clear strategy, reiterating Pakistan’s willingness to engage in dialogue. However, he warned, “The approach of holding talks while allowing TTP operations against Pakistan cannot coexist.”
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the readiness of Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies to safeguard national peace and security. Referring to recent incidents, he noted that 16 Frontier Corps personnel were martyred in North Waziristan, where several terrorists were eliminated in an operation on Thursday, during which an army major was also martyred.
Marking the 17th anniversary of Benazir Bhutto’s martyrdom, the prime minister paid tribute to her, acknowledging her courage, political wisdom, and leadership.
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