Web Desk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan continues robust security operations along its western border as regional dynamics shift, following India&rsquo;s engagement with Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban government, according to a report by the International Crisis Group (ICG).&nbsp;The annual conflict assessment, titled &ldquo;Ten Conflicts to Watch in 2026&rdquo;, highlights Pakistan&rsquo;s strategic position in South Asia after two separate military confrontations in 2025, first with India in April, then with Afghanistan in October.&nbsp;The report underscores ongoing cross-border militancy, noting that over 600 Pakistani security personnel were killed last year, primarily in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces bordering Afghanistan.&nbsp;Islamabad attributes these attacks to militants operating from Afghan territory, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) elements.&nbsp;While the Taliban publicly deny the presence of Pakistani militants in Afghanistan, officials acknowledge that controlling all movement across the 2,570-kilometer border remains challenging, the ICG notes.&nbsp;In October, cross-border incidents prompted Pakistan to conduct limited operations against militant targets, and coordinated regional diplomacy through T&uuml;rkiye and Qatar helped establish a temporary ceasefire.&nbsp;The ICG report also observes that Taliban-India engagement has heightened Pakistan&rsquo;s strategic focus on the region. Pakistan&rsquo;s intelligence and military authorities continue to monitor developments closely, ensuring cross-border threats are contained while maintaining readiness for counterterrorism operations.&nbsp;Pakistan&rsquo;s history of supporting Afghan stability, including sheltering Taliban leaders during their insurgency against the US-backed government, underscores Islamabad&rsquo;s ongoing commitment to regional security.&nbsp;The ICG report stresses that Pakistan&rsquo;s proactive measures aim to prevent militant groups from exploiting porous borders and to maintain calm along its western frontier.&nbsp;In addition to western border challenges, Pakistan faced tensions with India following the April 2025 Pahalgam incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which led to retaliatory strikes by both sides.&nbsp;The report calls these confrontations the most serious escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors in years. Pakistani authorities have since worked closely with international partners to stabilize the situation, while continuing to strengthen defense preparedness.&nbsp;&ldquo;Pakistan remains vigilant in safeguarding its borders and countering cross-border threats,&rdquo; the assessment notes, citing Islamabad&rsquo;s measured and strategic response. Officials emphasize that regional stability depends on continuous cooperation, intelligence coordination, and robust security measures along sensitive border areas.&nbsp;The ICG&rsquo;s annual watchlist identifies South Asia as a critical flashpoint in 2026, highlighting the importance of Pakistan&rsquo;s proactive counterterrorism and border security operations in maintaining regional peace.

Afghanistan

India

The ICG report highlights South Asia’s 2025 conflicts, cross-border militancy, Afghanistan-India engagement, and regional flashpoints, warning that instability could escalate if underlying tensions remain unaddressed in 2026.

Pakistan strengthens border security amid Taliban-India regional developments

ISLAMABAD: Interim&nbsp;Afghan Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani declared that the country had fulfilled its Doha commitments, posed no threat internationally, and remained open to dialogue for &ldquo;resolving any existing challenges&rdquo;, Afghan media reported. Haqqani claimed during a police graduation ceremony at the Police Academy that Afghanistan was now a secure country and posed no threat to other nations.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 440px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2004080608247795944&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fsections%2F&sessionId=5157be1bb5ef009d41645d0ce50a08cf30f5b118&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" data-tweet-id="2004080608247795944">&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>&lsquo;Any existing challenges&rsquo;<h2 style="line-height: 2;">Haqqani further claimed that the commitments made during the Doha consultations, particularly that Afghan soil would not be used to threaten others, have been implemented.</h2> He added that Afghanistan remains open to dialogue for resolving &ldquo;any existing challenges&rdquo;. Haqqani said: &ldquo;We have worked to fulfill our commitment that Afghanistan will not be a threat to other countries, and we continue to believe that any issues should be resolved through dialogue. The doors of Afghanistan are not closed.&rdquo; Return of refugees &nbsp;The interim interior minister further claimed that the government continues to work on practical measures for the safe return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, as well as addressing broader regional security and development challenges. Meanwhile, the Administrative Deputy Minister of the Interior, Rahmatullah Najib, announced the graduation of nearly 900 new police academy cadets, stating that this will contribute to improved public safety and stability, Afghan media reported. UNSC reportA <a href="https://www.pakistantv.com/article/unsc-report-questions-taliban-claims-of-denying-militant-safe-havens" style="color:#0073e6;">United Nations Security Council (UNSC) report</a> released this month has dismissed the Afghan Taliban&rsquo;s claim that militant groups are not using Afghan territory for cross-border violence, calling the assertion &ldquo;not credible&rdquo; and warning that neighboring countries increasingly see Afghanistan as a source of regional insecurity due to ongoing operations by several armed groups based there. The findings are included in the 16th report of the United Nations Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, submitted to the United Nations Security Council under resolution 2763.

Sirajuddin Haqqani declares the country has fulfilled its Doha commitments, poses no international threat, remains open to dialogue on challenges, and is working on refugee returns, regional security, and stability.

Doors open for talks to resolve ‘any existing challenges’: Interim Afghan minister 

ISLAMABAD: Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has said that the Afghan Taliban regime has become a threat not only to Pakistan but to the security of the entire region. Briefing senior journalists on national security matters on Tuesday, a video of which was released on Friday evening, the DG ISPR said Pakistan has carried out 67,023 intelligence-based operations so far this year. He said 1,873 terrorists were neutralized in 2025, including 136 Afghan nationals. Since November 4 alone, security forces have conducted 4,910 operations, neutralizing 206 terrorists.<div class="fr-embed youtube-embed"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HE5bukjvwvw?si=ouKLt-q8gYM8eH0R" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" style="width: 100%; height: auto; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; max-width: 100%; display: block;">&nbsp;</iframe>&nbsp;</div>He said misleading propaganda was being spread about Pakistan&rsquo;s border management efforts. The Pakistan-Afghanistan border runs through difficult and mountainous terrain, he explained, adding that the fence alone cannot work without observation, firepower and surveillance. He said building forts every few kilometers would require massive resources. He stated that unlike Punjab and Sindh, several villages in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa lie directly on the border, making the movement of people difficult to control. Effective border management, he said, is only possible when both countries cooperate. However, he added that Afghan terrorists are being fully facilitated by the Taliban authorities to enter Pakistan. He said a strong political-terror-crime nexus exists in the border regions, including the use of non-custom-paid vehicles in attacks inside Pakistan. He questioned who is responsible for stopping illegal movement and smuggling once it happens inside Pakistan&rsquo;s territory. The DG ISPR said Pakistan has presented clear and irrefutable evidence to Kabul that terrorist leaders from Al-Qaeda, ISIS and other groups are operating from Afghan soil. He said Pakistan wants the Taliban to fulfil their commitments under the Doha Agreement through a verifiable mechanism, even if monitored by a third party. Calling the Taliban&rsquo;s claim that Pakistani militants are &ldquo;guests&rdquo; in Afghanistan illogical, he said if they are Pakistani citizens they should be handed over to Pakistan. He noted that $7.2 billion worth of US military equipment was left behind in Afghanistan after the withdrawal, according to SIGAR. He said the Taliban regime does not represent all Afghans, lacks ethnic representation, and excludes women. Pakistan, he stressed, has no issue with the Afghan people &mdash; the issue is with the Taliban regime&rsquo;s support for non-state actors. The DG ISPR said trade with Afghanistan cannot continue at the cost of Pakistani lives, adding that &ldquo;bloodshed and trade cannot go hand in hand.&rdquo; He reiterated that Pakistan draws no distinction between good and bad terrorists, saying &ldquo;a good terrorist is one who has been neutralized.&rdquo; He also shared figures for the dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees, saying 366,704 returned in 2024 and 971,604 in 2025, including 239,574 in November alone. He concluded by saying that &ldquo;truth always prevails over falsehood, and Pakistan stands with the truth.&rdquo;

Security

Military spokesperson says Afghan terrorists are being fully facilitated by the Taliban authorities to enter Pakistan.

Afghan regime now a threat to regional security, says Pakistan military

ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan&rsquo;s Interim Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday to advance bilateral trade and investment cooperation with India, according to a statement by the Indian ministry of external affairs (MEA). The visit, made at the invitation of the Indian government, aims to &ldquo;activate and effectively utilize the capacities of the Chabahar port and develop bilateral trade between the two countries,&rdquo; the Afghan ministry of commerce said in an official statement. During the visit, Azizi&rsquo;s delegation is scheduled to meet with Indian officials, including the minister of external affairs, as well as traders, investors, and representatives of the private sector, the statement added. The Afghanistan delegation visited the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 on Wednesday, Indian media reported. Managing director of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) Neeraj Kharwal met Azizi and briefed him on facilities at the fair and opportunities for Afghanistan to participate in future exhibitions. Key Indian exports to Afghanistan include pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and food items such as sugar, tea and rice, while imports include agricultural products and minerals. According to the interim Afghan government&#39;s state-run Bakhtar News Agency, the agenda of the visit includes key discussions on enhancing the operational capabilities of Chabahar Port, attracting investment, and expanding trade ties between Afghanistan and India. &quot;During his visit, Minister Azizi is scheduled to attend the Pragati Maidan Exhibition and will hold meetings with several senior Indian officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Commerce, and representatives from the private sector. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote cooperative economic opportunities,&quot; the state media reported on Wednesday. &ldquo;The focus of these meetings is to expand economic cooperation, facilitate trade relations, create joint investment opportunities, and strengthen Afghanistan&rsquo;s role in the region&rsquo;s transit routes,&rdquo; the Afghan commerce ministry said. Indian MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated the purpose of the trip in a statement posted on X, stating, &ldquo;The focus of the visit is to advance bilateral trade and investment ties between India and Afghanistan.&rdquo;<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; line-height: 2;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1991065160354808109&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=c3b8cc9bf66b7bb13f0adb4c801a9277a2dbe74e&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 873px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>India-Afghanistan air corridor&nbsp;An Indian media report, citing a senior Indian official reported that the two countries are now moving toward full-fledged trade through the India-Afghanistan air corridor, with two flights to Kabul operating daily and an Indian cargo firm onboard to expand capacity. While Afghanistan had hoped to revive shipping links through Iran&#39;s Chabahar Port, US sanctions have made the route &quot;impossible at present&quot;, prompting both sides to double down on air connectivity. The visit follows closely on the heels of interim Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi&#39;s five-day trip to India in October. Analysts note the visits come amid heightened tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, which have strained diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Kabul. Talks between Pakistan and Afghan TalibanSeveral rounds of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have taken place aimed at stopping cross-border terrorism emanating from Afghanistan.&nbsp; The first round of talks was held in Doha, Qatar, on Oct. 18-19, where an initial ceasefire agreement was reached with mediation from T&uuml;rkiye and Qatar.&nbsp; The second round took place in Istanbul from Oct. 25 to 30 to strengthen and extend the ceasefire.&nbsp; A principal-level meeting took place on Nov. 6 in Istanbul, T&uuml;rkiye, to finalize further implementation details, but it ended in a deadlock.

Foreign Affairs

Afghanistan’s interim commerce minister Nooruddin Azizi visits India to discuss trade, investment and Chabahar cooperation, as Kabul engages regional partners amid strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.

Afghan trade chief in India amid strained Pakistan-Afghanistan ties

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi on Friday stated that Islamabad tried to positively engage with the Afghan Taliban by offering bilateral concessions and humanitarian assistance, yet the Taliban regime made hollow promises and showed inaction, adding that Pakistan would not hold dialogue with any terrorist group. Speaking at the Foreign Office in Islamabad, the spokesperson appreciated the efforts made by Qatar and T&uuml;rkiye as mediators during the talks between Kabul and Islamabad. The spokesperson stated that Pakistan has never avoided dialogue with any government in Kabul but that Islamabad would not hold any dialogue with any terrorist group, a statement issued by the Foreign Office said. &ldquo;Pakistan would not hold dialogue with any terrorist group, be it TTP/FaK or BLA/FaH,&rdquo; said the statement. He added that there are people in Afghanistan who do not want confrontation with Pakistan, but there is a &ldquo;strong lobby with monetary support from foreign actors&rdquo; that has been tasked with inciting tensions. &ldquo;These elements have engaged in abuses and outrageous allegations against Pakistan. By doing so, they are rapidly eroding whatever goodwill they had within Pakistan,&rdquo; the statement added. Responding to Taliban officials&rsquo; statements calling terrorism an internal problem of Pakistan, the spokesperson stated that the Taliban regime failed to mention that there are people in Afghanistan who have issued fatwas legitimizing terrorist attacks in Pakistan. &ldquo;While the Afghan Taliban declare terrorism as Pakistan&rsquo;s internal issue, they fail to mention that there are people in Afghanistan who have issued fatwas legitimizing terrorist attacks against Pakistan,&rdquo; he said. Rejecting the narrative of disagreement over Afghan policy among some elements in the Taliban regime, he stated that there is absolute clarity among the people of Pakistan that ordinary citizens are the biggest victims of terrorist activities carried out by elements hiding in Afghanistan and their abettors. &ldquo;Since the Taliban regime came to power in Afghanistan, there has been a sharp increase in terrorist attacks emanating from Afghan soil on Pakistan,&rdquo; said the spokesperson. He added that despite the suffering of the military and civilians due to these attacks, Pakistan &ldquo;exercised maximum restraint and did not escalate.&rdquo; Discussing Pakistan&rsquo;s expectations from Afghanistan, he stated that the Taliban regime would, over time, be able to take concrete actions against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) present on Afghan soil. For this reason, he added that Islamabad also tried to positively engage with the Afghan Taliban regime by offering bilateral trade concessions and humanitarian assistance. Despite that, he added, all these positive gestures from Pakistan to the Taliban have &ldquo;only resulted in hollow promises and inaction.&rdquo; &ldquo;Fitna al Khawarij-affiliated TTP and Fitna al Hindustan-affiliated Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) are declared enemies of the State of Pakistan and its people. Anyone harboring, abetting, or financing them is not considered a friend or well-wisher of Pakistan and its people,&rdquo; he added. The spokesperson stated that Pakistan is determined to take every possible action to safeguard its interests and the security of its people. Andrabi regretted the Taliban regime&rsquo;s efforts to &ldquo;misrepresent&rdquo; the terrorists hiding on Afghan soil as a &ldquo;humanitarian issue,&rdquo; where the Taliban are portraying the TTP and BLA elements as refugees in Afghanistan. &ldquo;We regret that the Taliban regime is constantly trying to misrepresent the issue of terrorists hiding in Afghanistan as a humanitarian issue,&rdquo; the spokesperson added. Talking about Pakistanis residing in Afghanistan, the spokesperson stated that the country is ready to receive any Pakistanis living there and their families, &ldquo;provided they are handed over at the border crossings of Torkham or Chaman and not smuggled across the border equipped with sophisticated weapons and equipment.&rdquo; Discussing the instigation of Pashtoon nationalism in Pakistan, the spokesperson stated that there is an attempt by elements of the Taliban regime to instill Pashtoon nationalism in Pakistan. &ldquo;It is a historical fact that Pashtoons in Pakistan are a vibrant part of society and the state, holding leadership positions across the spectrum of public life and civil society,&rdquo; he added. Therefore, instead of instigating &ldquo;Pashtoonism in Pakistan,&rdquo; he said, it would be wise for the Taliban regime to investigate its own credentials of inclusivity across all segments of its population in its governance structures. The spokesperson stated that Pakistan remains committed to resolving bilateral differences through dialogue.

FO declares it will not hold dialogue with any terrorist groups, despite offering concessions to the Afghan Taliban, urges concrete action against terrorists, and condemns attempts to misrepresent threats.

Pakistan not to hold any ‘dialogue’ with terrorist groups: foreign office

Pakistan TV Satellite

ISLAMABAD: Chinese political analyst Dr Victor Zhikai Gao has said China supports Pakistan&rsquo;s narrative on Afghanistan and regional stability. In an exclusive interview with Pakistan TV, Dr Gao emphasized that Afghanistan cannot serve as a safe haven for all kinds of terrorist groups. He highlighted that ensuring domestic stability and regional cooperation is essential for Afghanistan&rsquo;s future. He noted that Afghanistan has the potential to become a key trade hub for neighbouring countries and beyond, generating substantial profits and benefits for its people.&nbsp;<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 648px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1987942914090299513&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=528b948452559ce1e4098115ce2c98b0cb1a10fb&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" data-tweet-id="1987942914090299513"></iframe></div></div>This can only be achieved if the country maintains internal stability and ceases to harbour terrorist groups, he added. Dr Gao said engaging in regional cooperation and fostering development can help the Afghan people enjoy prosperity and create a safer, more stable region. Speaking about India and its relations with regional countries, Dr Victor Zhikai Gao, who is vice president of Centre for China and Globalisation, Beijing, expressed concern over India&rsquo;s multiple territorial disputes with nearly all of its neighbours. &ldquo;India has volatile relations not only with China and Pakistan but with all its neighbours,&rdquo; he said, urging that the Indian government and people should exercise rationality, wisdom, and reason in resolving these disputes amicably, including with China. &ldquo;I would appeal on the Indian government and Indian people to use more rationality, and more reason and more wisdom in dealing with its neighbouring countries and come to amicable solutions of any or all territorial disputes with its multitude of neighbouring countries,&rdquo; he said. Reflecting on the May 7 war between Pakistan and India, Dr Gao described it as the largest arrow battle in human history over recent decades.&nbsp;<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 648px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1987941604347572718&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=528b948452559ce1e4098115ce2c98b0cb1a10fb&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" data-tweet-id="1987941604347572718"></iframe></div></div>He emphasised that while India often disputes the outcome, the world recognised Pakistan as the clear winner.&nbsp; He noted that even US President Donald Trump had reaffirmed this point, highlighting lessons for India regarding military preparedness and diplomatic conduct with neighbours. Dr Gao praised the China-Pakistan cooperation during the conflict, noting that the Pakistani military effectively used jointly produced equipment and Chinese-applied weapons systems.&nbsp; He called it a proven success story, demonstrating the strength of the bilateral partnership. He concluded by expressing hope that this cooperation will deepen and expand, ensuring no foreign power dares to challenge Pakistan again.&nbsp; &ldquo;This is a joint success, a victory for Pakistan as well as for China,&rdquo; he said, congratulating the Pakistani people and the Armed Forces.&nbsp; Dr Gao said such solidarity will contribute to greater peace, stability, and prosperity across South Asia.

Political analyst emphasizes that Afghanistan cannot serve as safe haven for all kinds of terrorist groups; highlights that ensuring domestic stability, regional cooperation is essential for Afghanistan’s future.


China supports Pakistan’s narrative on Afghanistan and regional stability

Mariam Ellahi

ISTANBUL: Pakistan&rsquo;s high-level security delegation began departing for Istanbul Airport on Friday after discussions with the Afghan Taliban government remained deadlocked, security sources told Pakistan TV Digital.&nbsp;Pakistan&rsquo;s National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Asim Malik, who led the delegation, has also left as the round concluded without agreement, the sources confirmed.&nbsp;Earlier in the day in Islamabad, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan had submitted &ldquo;evidence-based, justified and logical&rdquo; demands to the mediators &ldquo;with the singular aim to put an end to cross-border terrorism.&rdquo;&nbsp;&ldquo;The mediators fully endorse Pakistan&rsquo;s stance on the basis of the evidence provided by our side as well as the tenets of international law and principles,&rdquo; Andrabi said, adding that the mediators are presenting Pakistan&rsquo;s demands to the Afghan Taliban delegation &ldquo;point by point.&rdquo;&nbsp;Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Pakistan appreciates the mediation efforts of T&uuml;rkiye and Qatar, but responsibility lies with Kabul to fulfill its counterterrorism commitments.&nbsp;&ldquo;Onus lies on Afghanistan to fulfill its long standing international, regional and bilateral pledges regarding control of terrorism, in which so far they have failed,&rdquo; Tarar said.&nbsp;He stressed that Pakistan&rsquo;s core concern is the presence of armed groups operating from Afghan territory and attacking Pakistani security forces and civilians.&nbsp;&ldquo;Pakistan does not harbor any ill-will against the Afghan people,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;However, [Pakistan] shall never support the Afghan Taliban regime&rsquo;s measures that are detrimental to the interest of the Afghan people as well as neighboring countries.&rdquo;&nbsp;Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking in an interview with GEO News, confirmed the stalemate and said the negotiation process is now uncertain.&nbsp;&ldquo;There is complete deadlock and the agreement has entered an indefinite phase. There is no hope of a third or fourth round,&rdquo; Asif said. He thanked Qatar and T&uuml;rkiye &ldquo;for sincerely making efforts.&rdquo;&nbsp;Asif cautioned that Pakistan would respond if attacks continue.&nbsp;&ldquo;If the situation flares up from the Afghanistan side, we will respond accordingly,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Until there is no ceasefire broken from their side, the ceasefire persists, but if they break it, we will respond.&rdquo;&nbsp;He said Pakistan&rsquo;s principal demand is the prevention of terrorist attacks inside Pakistan, including on schools and civilian targets.&nbsp;&ldquo;They have indicated they know the terrorists come from their side but they say they cannot do anything. So they should not stand between us and the terrorists, let us handle it. We have all the resources and information to control them,&rdquo; Asif said.&nbsp;With negotiations stalled, Tarar reiterated that Pakistan will continue diplomatic engagement, but not at the expense of national security.&nbsp;&ldquo;Pakistan shall continue to exercise all options necessary to safeguard the security of its people and its sovereignty,&rdquo; he said.

Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar says Afghanistan must fulfill anti-terror pledges, Islamabad holds no ill-will but will take necessary security measures.

Pakistan NSA leaves as Afghan Taliban talks stall

ISLAMABAD: Essential food prices across Afghanistan continued to rise in early November, with tomatoes leading the increase, up 35% from last year, according to the World Food Programme&#39;s latest weekly market report. The price increases are squeezing household budgets nationwide as border disruptions with Pakistan and fuel supply constraints push up the cost of necessities. Key price increases Diesel fuel jumped 28% compared to last year, now averaging AFN77.2 ($1.16) per liter. Palawi rice, the preferred long-grain variety, rose 14%, while salt increased by the same amount. DAP fertilizer, essential for farmers preparing for the planting season, climbed 12%. The government&#39;s recent ban on importing low-quality fuel reduced supply and raised diesel prices. Ongoing border tensions with Pakistan disrupted the flow of goods into the country, while the temporary closure of the Salang Tunnel increased transportation costs. Despite these year-over-year increases, week-to-week changes remained modest. Palawi rice increased 1.7%, wheat grain rose 1.7%, and tomato prices actually dropped 5.1% from the previous week, reflecting normal seasonal fluctuations. Regional differences Prices varied significantly across Afghanistan&#39;s 34 provinces. Ghazni recorded the highest weekly increase in wheat grain at 11%, while Bamyan saw prices fall 7%. Diesel ranged from AFN85 ($1.28) per liter in Nuristan to AFN66 ($0.99) in Nimroz. Not all commodities increased. Onion prices dropped 32% compared to last year, while bread declined 5% and sugar fell 3%. Struggling workers According to the WFP report, the labor market continued to worsen. Casual laborers can now find work an average of just 2.3 days per week, with daily wages of AFN308 ($4.64) for unskilled work. Both figures declined from last year, highlighting rising unemployment and limited income opportunities. A daily wage now buys 11 kilograms of low-price wheat flour, down from 12.5 kg last year. When accounting for limited working days, the actual purchasing power is 3.6 kg per day &mdash; a 21% year-over-year decline. The influx of people returning to Afghanistan has added pressure to an already tight labor market. Mixed signals The Afghan currency strengthened 2% against the US dollar over the past year, now trading at AFN66.5 per dollar. However, this has not translated into lower domestic prices, creating a widening gap between local and dollar-based costs. The WFP&#39;s standard food basket, tracking essential commodities, currently costs AFN5,602 ($84.36) &mdash; slightly below the benchmark set in May 2024. Wheat grain and flour prices remain 11% to 13% lower than before the government transition in 2021, though most other food items cost more than during that period. Agricultural outlook Fertilizer and seed prices remained relatively stable week to week. Urea fertilizer costs AFN1,625 ($24.47) per 50 kg, while improved seed averages AFN1,855 ($27.94) for the same amount. A one-year-old female sheep, tracked as a measure of pastoralist purchasing power, averaged 7,866 AFN ($118.46) per head, down 2% from last year.

The price increases are squeezing household budgets nationwide as border disruptions with Pakistan and fuel supply constraints drive up costs for basic necessities.

Food prices jump 35% in Afghanistan due to border tensions: report

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has rejected a statement attributed to the Afghan Taliban spokesperson regarding the Istanbul talks, which seeks to deliberately distort the facts.&nbsp;In a post on X, Afghan news agency Ariana News quoted spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, saying that during the Istanbul talks, Afghanistan &ldquo;was willing to deport people Islamabad considers a security threat,&rdquo; but Pakistan did not accept the offer.&nbsp;Rejecting the claim, the Ministry of Information &amp; Broadcasting stated in a post on X:&nbsp;&ldquo;When the Afghan side said that they were Pakistani nationals, Pakistan immediately proposed that they be handed over through designated border posts, consistent with Pakistan&rsquo;s long-standing position,&rdquo; adding that any claim to the contrary is false and misleading. <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1984625202018599161&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F1879%2F&sessionId=67b5d76852f4a487cd242e7b1cf53b4e40416903&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 873px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;"></iframe></div></div>Pakistan also strongly rejected statements by the Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid in an interview with a TV channel on Saturday, regarding the recent Istanbul talks between delegations from both countries. The spokesperson had accused Pakistan of undermining ties and accused it of conducting airstrikes on Afghan soil. Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, responding to Mujahid&rsquo;s allegations, issued a categorical statement on X dismissing the claims. &ldquo;There exists complete unanimity of views among all Pakistanis, including the country&rsquo;s political and military leadership, regarding Pakistan&rsquo;s security policies and its comprehensive approach toward Afghanistan,&rdquo; he said. He added that the people of Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are fully aware of the treacherous and barbaric patronization of Indian-sponsored terrorism by the Afghan Taliban regime. &ldquo;They harbor no illusions about its intent or conduct,&rdquo; he noted. The minister described the Taliban&rsquo;s narrative as an attempt to deflect attention from its own failures. &ldquo;It is the non-representative Afghan Taliban regime that suffers from deep internal factionalism and is responsible for the continued oppression of Afghan ethnicities, women, children, and minorities,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Even after four years in power, the regime has failed to fulfill its promises to the international community.&rdquo; He said Pakistan&rsquo;s policy remains consistent and focused on regional peace. &ldquo;Pakistan&rsquo;s policy to protect its citizens from cross-border terrorism and the perverted ideology of Khawarij remains unified, unwavering, and firmly anchored in national interest as well as in the pursuit of regional stability,&rdquo; he emphasized.

Information Ministry says, consistent with its long-standing position, Pakistan demands that terrorists in Afghanistan posing a threat be controlled or arrested.

Pakistan denies Taliban claim of refused deportation deal at Istanbul talks

Saqib Tanveer

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has agreed to extend the ongoing dialogue process with Afghanistan in Istanbul following a request from the host country, T&uuml;rkiye, well-placed sources confirmed to Pakistan TV Digital on Thursday.&nbsp;The talks will resume at 2pm Pakistan Time, according to sources. &quot;It was decided to resume the dialogue process to give peace another chance,&quot; sources said. The talks will focus on Pakistan&rsquo;s central demand that Afghanistan take clear, verifiable and effective action against terrorists, the sources added. Pakistan has once again stressed that Afghan territory must not be used for terrorism against it. The sources appreciated the constructive role of the hosts and reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution through dialogue in good faith. BackgroundThe four-day high-level security talks between the two South Asian nations in Istanbul had ended on Tuesday without an agreement after the Afghan delegation &ldquo;declined to accept verifiable measures&rdquo; against the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).&nbsp;&ldquo;The Afghan side did not sign the final draft despite multiple near-agreements,&rdquo; a senior security source added.&nbsp;Pakistan presented evidence and proposed enforcement steps to curb cross-border attacks, but Kabul &ldquo;avoided concrete commitments,&rdquo; another source said. Mediators from Qatar and T&uuml;rkiye facilitated the discussions. On Oct. 17, the two countries had agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, and for a second round of talks in Istanbul.&nbsp; Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Afghan Taliban leadership to act against the proscribed TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), saying both groups operate from sanctuaries inside Afghanistan. Officials note that commitments made under the Doha Agreement have not been fully implemented.&nbsp;Earlier, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar said Pakistan joined the Doha and Istanbul rounds &ldquo;to give peace a chance&rdquo; at the request of Qatar and T&uuml;rkiye. However, he said, the Afghan side resorted to &ldquo;blame, deflection, and excuses,&rdquo; leaving the dialogue fruitless.

At the request of the host country, Türkiye, the talks will resume at 2pm Pakistan Time, sources said.

Articles tagged with "Pakistan Afghanistan tensions"