Pakistan has endorsed the Trump administration’s initiative to reclaim US weapons left in Afghanistan due to concerns they are being used by terrorists. The Foreign Office highlighted the significance of returning these arms for regional security. Cooperation between Pakistan and the US in intelligence sharing and counterterrorism remains active, despite challenges in relations with Afghanistan and competing narratives surrounding Kashmir.
Pakistan’s government has expressed support for the Trump administration’s initiative to retrieve billions of dollars worth of weapons left behind in Afghanistan by the US forces after their withdrawal in August 2021. According to Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, the weapons are reportedly being used by terrorists in Pakistan, raising concerns for regional security. He mentioned that retrieving these arms would be beneficial for the overall safety of the region.
Former President Donald Trump has criticized the Biden administration’s withdrawal strategy, highlighting the issue of sophisticated weaponry remaining in Afghanistan. Trump’s intention to seek the return of these weapons has been welcomed by Pakistan due to their potential misuse by terrorist organizations operating in the region.
During a media briefing, the spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to maintain good relations with Afghanistan while addressing ongoing concerns regarding terrorism, particularly from groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, who are believed to find sanctuary within Afghanistan’s borders. Pakistan continues to raise these issues with the Afghan authorities.
Pakistan has condemned actions taken by Afghanistan that have recently led to the closure of the Torkham border crossing, attributing these incursions to unilateral construction activities by the Afghan side. The spokesperson asserted that Pakistan has remained restrained despite provocations, and emphasized the need for matters to be resolved through peaceful discussions.
Rejecting accusations from the Afghan Taliban about Pakistan’s involvement with Daesh, the spokesperson reaffirmed that such claims are unfounded. Additionally, the spokesperson responded to remarks made by India’s External Affairs Minister regarding Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring that no electoral process can replace the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and their long-standing grievances, which must be addressed in accordance with international law.
On the case of the recent capture of a high-profile Daesh commander, Sharifullah, the spokesperson highlighted the depth of cooperation between Pakistan and the US in counterterrorism efforts, describing the collaboration as part of Pakistan’s firm policy against terrorism. The efforts culminated in Sharifullah’s transfer to US authorities as a demonstration of Pakistan’s commitment to global anti-terrorism initiatives.
In summary, Pakistan has publicly backed the Trump administration’s efforts to recover weapons left in Afghanistan, citing security concerns amidst rising terrorism. The discussions around the Torkham border, ongoing security cooperation with the US, and the Kashmir issue illustrate the complex dynamics in regional relations. Pakistan aims for a resolution to internal and external threats, focusing on peace and stability in South Asia. Any approach toward Afghanistan requires mutual respect and addressing radical elements fostering insecurity.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
