LONDON: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday urged Afghanistan’s interim government to immediately take effective action against the terrorist groups operating from its soil and ensure that Afghan territory is not used for any terror attacks inside Pakistan.
The Prime Minister was speaking to journalists in London, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on Sunday.
PM Shehbaz reiterated that Afghanistan is a neighbouring and brotherly country and that both countries must strive to live as good neighbours rather than fuelling conflict.
He stated that Pakistan has consistently communicated to the Afghan interim government that, under the Doha Agreement, Afghan territory must not be used for terrorist activities. However, he regretted that groups such as the TTP, ISKP, and others continue to operate from within Afghanistan and have launched deadly attacks targeting innocent Pakistani citizens.
He underscored that the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s people, armed forces, police, and other law enforcement agencies in the fight against terrorism will not be in vain.
Offering sincere counsel to the Afghan leadership, he urged them to take immediate and decisive action against these terrorist groups and to ensure that Afghan soil is not used as a launching pad for attacks against other nations.
While sharing the details of his recent visit to Belarus, he added that an understanding has been reached with Belarus to provide employment opportunities for 150,000 skilled Pakistani youth.
He noted that Pakistan has vast mineral resources and that he visited a factory in Belarus that manufactures mining equipment. He expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in this sector as well.
Regarding the overseas convention, the PM said it has officially started and is a major and historic event. He welcomed overseas Pakistanis back home, commending their contributions to the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also noted a significant increase in remittances from overseas Pakistanis this year. He emphasized that the convention serves as an excellent platform to connect with the diaspora, hear their genuine concerns, and respond swiftly wherever feasible.
