IN a telephonic conversation between caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to combat terrorism. The discussion took place in the aftermath of a tragic attack on a police station in Rask, a town in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, where 11 Iranian security personnel lost their lives. The incident prompted Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi to call on Pakistan to prevent terrorist groups from establishing bases within its borders.
The fact of the matter is that Pakistan itself is the victim of terrorism and in recent months there has been a surge in terror attacks. The country has paid a heavy price, both in terms of human lives and material resources in the war on terrorism. Pakistan has consistently condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. As regards the remarks of the Iranian Interior Minister, Pakistan has raised similar concerns in the past regarding the use of Iranian soil for attacks inside Balochistan. These attacks targeted Pakistani security personnel, emphasizing the cross-border nature of the terrorist threat.
The historical context of such incidents should be considered, recognizing that both nations have experienced the impact of terrorism within their borders. Terrorism knows no borders, and its transnational nature requires coordinated efforts from neighbouring countries. It is imperative to convey that acts of terror should not be allowed to harm the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Iran which share historical ties and cultural affinities. To address this common challenge, both countries should emphasize joint efforts including intelligence sharing and enhanced security at the border. The goal should be to transform the Pak-Iran border into a symbol of peace and prosperity. By working together, the two nations can counter the common enemy of terrorism and contribute to regional stability. Historically, Pakistan and Iran have maintained strong diplomatic ties and it is crucial to build upon this foundation to strengthen cooperation in addressing security challenges. Regular dialogue and joint initiatives can foster a more secure environment, deterring terrorists from exploiting the porous border regions.
