Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, stated on Thursday that Islamabad cannot confirm reports of the Taliban arresting at least 40 Tehreek Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters.
During a press briefing, Baloch indicated that the ministry is unable to verify the existence, scale, or effectiveness of such actions.
“We expect the Afghan authorities to take effective action against terrorist groups, particularly the TTP. We hope any meaningful action will reflect on the ground with a reduction in terrorist incidents initiated by those enjoying sanctuaries in Afghanistan,” she said.
Baloch emphasized that there are no ongoing talks between Pakistan and the TTP, nor are any such discussions planned. “Our current focus is on urging Afghan authorities to act against TTP elements to eliminate the terror threat against Pakistan from Afghan soil,” she stated.
She reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability in Afghanistan and the goal of working with Afghan counterparts to prevent terror threats from targeting Pakistan. Baloch expressed concern over the TTP’s possession of sophisticated weaponry, which poses a threat to Pakistani law enforcement and civilians.
On the topic of Pakistani politician Fazal-ur-Rehman’s, head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, invitation by the Taliban to mediate between the TTP and Pakistan, Baloch clarified that his visit is personal. “I do not wish to comment on this private individual visit,” she concluded.
