Kandahar: Afghanistan has called for “brotherly relations” and dialogue with Pakistan, as tensions between the two neighbours deepen over cross-border violence.
Speaking to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) in Kandahar, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid urged mutual trust and diplomacy after Islamabad accused Kabul of harbouring the terrorist groups, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch separatist behind a surge in attacks inside Pakistan.
Pakistan has long maintained that the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) – responsible for a surge in deadly attacks inside the country – operates from safe havens on Afghan soil. Officials in Islamabad also accuse Kabul of providing space to Baloch separatist factions, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), both of which Pakistan labels as terrorist outfits.
Speaking in Kandahar, Mujahid insisted that Afghanistan is committed to ensuring its territory is not used against its neighbour. “Afghanistan, as a brother, wants fraternal relations with Pakistan,” Mujahid told CRSS. “The problems that exist should be resolved between the two brotherly countries through dialogue and mutual understanding. Blame games, use of force or creating an environment that complicates issues further is not in anyone’s interest.”
Mujahid stressed that the Taliban government has taken steps to prevent cross-border violence. “Afghanistan is trying its utmost that its land is not used against Pakistan,” he said.
The Taliban spokesman also called on Pakistan’s religious scholars, clerics, and civil society to play a constructive role in shaping public opinion and promoting stability in the region.
“This is a region where people share religious, linguistic and cultural ties. Positive engagement from Pakistan’s ulema and public figures can help build confidence and strengthen brotherly ties,” Mujahid added.
Pakistan, however, continues to demand “decisive action” from Kabul against the TTP and other terrorist groups it says are exploiting Afghanistan’s rugged borderlands to stage attacks. Islamabad has repeatedly warned that its patience is running thin, with senior officials suggesting that Afghan inaction amounts to tacit support for militants targeting Pakistan.
“—- both sides should exchange intelligence in real time so that threats can be neutralised,” he told CRSS and added that leadership on both sides should seek practical solutions. “Meetings should be arranged, dialogue should take place, and trust should be built. Media campaigns and threats do not serve the interests of either country,” he said.
On the question of trust, Mujahid acknowledged that despite the existence of a joint contact committee between Kabul and Islamabad, relations have not normalised over the past four years. Yet, he insisted the Taliban leadership harbours no ill will toward Pakistan. “Our stance is clear: no official of the Islamic Emirate holds a negative view against Pakistan, nor do we want such a position,” he said.
