Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday that Kabul must understand that lasting peace can only be achieved by restraining terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.
Addressing the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference in Islamabad, the prime minister stated, “Afghanistan must realize that sustainable peace is only possible by curbing the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist groups working from its territory.”
Commitment to peace and security
The prime minister said the conference theme, “Peace, Security, and Development,” is timely and particularly important for Pakistan. He stressed that peace and security are the foundations of sustainable national and regional development.
Shehbaz Sharif also referred to the recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, saying Islamabad’s response was “strong and decisive, and it delivered an unforgettable lesson.”
He appreciated the efforts of Türkiye and Qatar for facilitating peace talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban government.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s belief in peaceful coexistence, the prime minister said the country has long worked to achieve regional peace. However, he regretted that terrorist groups operating inside and outside Afghanistan continue to “threaten peace.”
Eastern front and stalled talks
The prime minister also mentioned a brief military standoff with India earlier in May this year, saying Pakistan faced “unprovoked aggression on the eastern front.” He praised the armed forces for their “remarkable readiness and outstanding performance on the battlefield.” He added, “After winning the war, we must now strive sincerely and honestly to win peace.”
His remarks came just days after the third round of talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan ended without any agreement. Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had confirmed that the talks were “over” and had entered an “indefinite phase.” He said the ceasefire remains in place, but any violation would be met with a strong response.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced that three senior Turkish officials will visit Pakistan this week to discuss rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
