ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan has denied reports that Pakistan is recognizing the Taliban government in Afghanistan, calling them mere speculation.
Shafqat Ali Khan this during the weekly press briefing in Islamabad. He said that terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan remain a serious concern for Pakistan, adding that talks between the foreign ministers of both countries are ongoing. He also confirmed that the preparations are underway for the Afghan Foreign Minister’s visit to Islamabad.
Regarding the recent visit of Pakistan’s Interior Minister to Afghanistan, he said that during the visit of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, security and counter-terrorism issues were discussed in detail with the Afghan counterpart. Pakistan raised the issue of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist organization using the Afghan soil for terror activities in Pakistan. He added that the Afghan leadership responded positively to Pakistan’s concerns, and technical-level discussions between the two countries on security matters are ongoing.
Shafqat Ali Khan further said that the deadline for the return of registered Afghan refugees ended on June 30. Proposals have been submitted to the government for an extension, but a final decision is still pending. The Interior Ministry and other state institutions will decide on any extension or new restrictions.
On Pakistan-Iran relations, the spokesperson said Pakistan sees its relationship with Iran as multi-dimensional and based on people-to-people contact. He clarified that the proposed date of July 26 for the Iranian President’s visit was only speculation, and the actual date will be announced once both sides agree.
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Foreign Office spokesperson also commented on Pakistan-India relations, saying that Pakistan believes all issues, including Kashmir, can only be resolved through meaningful dialogue. He said Pakistan is fully prepared to defend itself against any aggression and is open to talks, but India’s delay tactics are a major obstacle. No formal offer for U.S. mediation has been received so far.
