NEW YORK: Pakistan raises Afghanistan terrorism concerns at OIC, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urging the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to maintain close attention to developments in Afghanistan and their implications for regional peace, security and stability.
Dar made the remarks while addressing the OIC Contact Group on Afghanistan on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
He said the situation in Afghanistan continued to require attention and called for concrete and verifiable measures to prevent Afghan territory from being used for terrorist activities against neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan.
Pakistan raises Afghanistan terrorism concerns at OIC
Dar said Pakistan remained seriously concerned about the presence of more than two dozen terrorist groups in Afghanistan, which he said posed threats to regional and international peace and security. Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns about militant groups operating from Afghan territory.
The foreign minister said Pakistani law-enforcement personnel were making significant sacrifices in countering terrorism. He also referred to the recent attack on the old Police Lines in Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which resulted in more than 20 deaths and injured around 100 people.
Dar urged the OIC to encourage the Afghan Taliban to take steps against terrorism and to fulfil their international commitments. He also called for an inclusive political process in Afghanistan and greater protection of fundamental freedoms.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 addressed the meeting of the OIC Contact Group on Afghanistan on 22 September 2026 on the sidelines of UNGA, in New York.
The DPM/FM stressed the need for concrete and verifiable action to prevent… pic.twitter.com/3eUVkqIhq7
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 22, 2026
He said Pakistan supported efforts aimed at helping Afghanistan integrate into the international community but stressed that conditions conducive to such integration were necessary.
Dar also acknowledged mediation efforts by Qatar, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, saying the countries had sought to encourage the Taliban to pursue an amicable and peaceful resolution to outstanding issues.
He called for continued international assistance for Afghanistan, including humanitarian aid and support for socio-economic development. He also urged the international community to help facilitate the resettlement and integration of Afghan returnees.
Pakistan has repeatedly stated that meaningful progress in relations with Kabul depends on concrete and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory. The Foreign Office has said Islamabad remains prepared for peaceful engagement while stressing that terrorism concerns need to be addressed.
Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting efforts for a stable and peaceful Afghanistan, stressing the importance of mutual respect, sincerity and political will.
The OIC meeting was held during the high-level week of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, where Dar is participating in a series of diplomatic engagements.
