ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed on Friday that Afghan security forces deliberately attempted to establish a border post on the Pakistan side of the Pak-Afghan border at Torkham.
“Afghan authorities had been attempting to set up a post on the Pakistani side of the border, violating existing protocols,” said Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan during a weekly briefing, highlighting the ongoing challenges at the border.
The development followed the closure of the Torkham border crossing last Friday.
The attempt to establish a border post is part of broader challenges in border management between the two nations. Pakistan has emphasised that multiple agencies oversee border security to prevent unilateral actions that could undermine regional security.
The Pakistani government has officially raised concerns with Afghan authorities, urging them to resolve the issue through dialogue and negotiations. “We’ve told Afghan authorities that this issue can be settled through proper discussions,” Khan said.
Concerns over leftover US weapons
Shafqat Ali Khan also voiced his grave concerns over the US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan, “which is reportedly being used by terrorist groups.”
“Terrorists are now using advanced US weapons abandoned in Afghanistan, with some even being smuggled into Pakistan,” Khan stated.
He said we have impressed upon the international community and Afghan authorities to address this issue.
The spokesperson added that Pakistan desired a friendly cooperative relationship with Afghanistan but the stumbling block in the way of progress has been sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists in Afghanistan.
He also highlighted recent diplomatic efforts, including high-level visits and talks with international leaders, reiterating Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening relations with countries like Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and the United Arab Emirates.
Additionally, he stressed the need for continued dialogue on Afghanistan’s support for terrorism and its continued instability.
F-16 Programme
Responding to a question, Shafqat Ali Khan said the F-16 oversight programme is a routine part of Pakistan-US defence collaboration. “Pakistan welcomes its continuation. This is a robust relationship, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to carrying this relationship forward,” he concluded.
