The Foreign Office confirmed on Friday that Pakistan and Afghanistan are holding constructive talks to defuse border tensions and seek a peaceful resolution.
Pakistan Urges Kabul to Act Against Militants
During his final weekly briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan said Pakistan has repeatedly warned Kabul about the presence of Fitna al-Khawarij in Afghanistan. He noted that Taliban forces launched provocative attacks along the border between October 11 and 15, which Pakistan repelled in self-defence. However, he emphasised that Pakistan’s response targeted terrorist elements only, avoiding civilian harm.
Ceasefire and Dialogue
Moreover, Khan said a 48-hour ceasefire, starting October 15, was initiated at the Taliban’s request to allow space for dialogue.
“Pakistan exercised its right to self-defence responsibly,” he stated, adding that Islamabad now expects concrete and verifiable actions from Kabul to stop terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil. He also reiterated that peaceful engagement remains Pakistan’s priority.
Strong Reaction to India-Afghanistan Statement
In addition, Khan rejected recent Afghan claims that terrorism was Pakistan’s internal issue, calling them an attempt to divert attention from militant networks in Afghanistan.
He voiced strong reservations over the India-Afghanistan joint statement, saying its references to Jammu and Kashmir violated UN resolutions and international law.
Humanitarian Commitment and Refugee Support
Furthermore, the spokesperson highlighted Pakistan’s humanitarian approach, noting that the country continues to host over four million Afghan refugees.
He said Pakistan will continue to regulate their stay according to international norms and domestic laws.
“Pakistan wishes to see a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan,” Khan added.
Pakistan Re-Elected to UN Human Rights Council
Ambassador Khan also announced that Pakistan has been re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council (2026–2028) with 178 votes, its sixth term since 2006. He said this re-election reflects the global community’s confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to human rights and diplomacy.
Pakistan’s Role in Gaza Peace Efforts
Additionally, Khan highlighted Pakistan’s participation in the Gaza Peace Summit held in Sharm el-Sheikh, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met several global leaders to promote regional peace and stability. The meetings, he said, underscored Pakistan’s growing diplomatic engagement.
Final Remarks
Finally, concluding his last briefing, Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to pursue peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
“It has been an honour to serve as the voice of Pakistan’s foreign policy,” he said.
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