ISLAMABAD:Pakistan has urged Afghanistan to ensure that its soil is not used as a safe haven by terrorist groups threatening regional security.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations, addressed the UN Security Council, highlighting the threat posed by the 6,000-strong Tehrik-e-Taliban
Pakistan (TTP) operating from Afghanistan.
He emphasized that terrorism emanating from Afghanistan remains a serious concern for Pakistan and its neighbours, with TTP having safe havens near the Pakistani border.
Ambassador Asim also warned of the destabilizing impact on the region due to ongoing tensions in Iran, particularly after recent Israeli attacks, which could lead to a refugee influx into Afghanistan and Pakistan, worsening the fragile situation.
Terrorism Threats and Regional Security
The envoy pointed out that terrorist organizations, including Al-Qaeda, TTP, and Baloch militant groups, continue to operate from ungoverned areas in Afghanistan.
Pakistan has taken defensive actions, confiscating advanced weapons left behind after international forces withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021.
In April, Pakistani security forces neutralized 54 TTP militants attempting to infiltrate Pakistan, highlighting the ongoing security challenges.
Ambassador Asim also revealed credible evidence of collaboration between TTP and other groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) aiming to sabotage strategic infrastructure and development projects in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Humanitarian Role and Support for Afghanistan
Pakistan has long hosted millions of Afghan refugees and has seen an increase of around one million undocumented Afghan arrivals since August 2021, which has added to local law and order challenges.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) noted that the Iran-Israel conflict has disrupted trade and increased living costs in Afghanistan, triggering a rise in refugees returning from Iran and Pakistan.
Pakistan supports efforts to stabilize Afghanistan’s economy, including reviving its banking system and unfreezing financial assets.
Pakistan also backs UN-led initiatives like the Doha Process for structured engagement with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, stressing the need for a comprehensive and inclusive framework addressing regional concerns.
The ambassador underscored Pakistan’s commitment to promoting education for Afghan youth through scholarships, including support for thousands of students, with a focus on women’s education.
Pakistan’s message was clear: peace and stability in Afghanistan are vital, and Islamabad is ready to play a constructive role in achieving that goal through dialogue, diplomacy, and regional cooperation.
