ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has reiterated its call for the Taliban to take decisive action against terror groups operating in Afghanistan, which Islamabad says pose a threat to its security.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, emphasized that Islamabad remains engaged with the Taliban on issues of regional security and counterterrorism.
“Pakistan continues to encourage the Taliban to act against terror groups and entities that threaten Pakistan’s security,” Ms. Baloch said. She highlighted that Obaidur Rehman Nizamani, Pakistan’s head of mission in Kabul, is leading ongoing discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and addressing security concerns.
“For Pakistan, terrorism is a priority issue in our exchanges with Afghanistan,” she said. “We are focused on combating threats posed by elements that have found hideouts and sanctuaries inside Afghanistan.”
Stance on Women’s Education
Ms. Baloch also addressed the Taliban’s recent restrictions on women, including bans on female students attending medical institutions. She reaffirmed Pakistan’s position on gender equality and education.
“Pakistan’s stance on the rights of women and girls, especially their inherent right to education, is clear and consistent,” she said. “We believe Islam grants equal access to education for both men and women.”
The spokesperson warned of the broader implications of unchecked terrorism, expressing concern that extremist groups operating in Afghanistan could evolve into a regional threat.
“Pakistan is particularly concerned that these terror groups could join forces and transform into an extra-regional threat,” she said.
Ms. Baloch also commented on the involvement of Afghan nationals in recent protests led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the political party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. While the Taliban-led Afghan embassy in Islamabad has denied such claims, Ms. Baloch insisted that foreign nationals were involved.
“The fact remains that there was a presence of Afghan nationals in some of the incidents that took place last week,” she said. She added that Afghan nationals arrested during the protests would face legal action in Pakistan.
