Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Munir Akram, has stated that Pakistan remains committed to maintaining its ties with the Taliban, despite differences.
Speaking in an interview with a US broadcaster, Munir emphasised that the mistakes of the Afghan government should not be borne by the Afghan people, highlighting Pakistan’s enduring relationship with its neighbour.
Munir pointed out that Pakistan has always supported engagement with Afghanistan, stressing that diplomacy aims to transform situations through dialogue and policy.
He reiterated that while the Taliban’s mistakes are recognised, Afghanistan’s internal and external issues require a joint strategy and collective efforts.
Therefore, ambassador Munir Akram, raised alarms at the United Nations Security Council regarding the increasing terrorist threat emanating from Afghanistan.
He emphasised that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, a terrorist group which Pakistan refers to as Fitna al-Khawarij, is rapidly expanding its influence with the support of the Afghan interim government.
The ambassador also stressed Pakistan’s readiness to collaborate with regional and international bodies to curb this growing menace, as Islamabad continues its nationwide crackdown on Fitna al-Khawarij.
Furthermore, the ambassador criticised the Afghan interim government for its ongoing human rights abuses, particularly against women and girls.
He condemned Kabul’s failure to uphold promises regarding gender equality, highlighting that these regressive policies not only contravene Islamic values but also hinder Afghanistan’s potential for international engagement.
