Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi on Sunday emphasised that the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan must be strengthened, and no one should be allowed to undermine the pursuit of peace between the two neighbouring countries.
Talking to the media, accompanying prominent religious leaders, he stressed the need for improved relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and the importance of maintaining peace in the region.
Ashrafi clarified Pakistan’s stance on Afghan nationals residing within its borders, saying: “There is not a single illegal student or teacher in any of the seminaries in Pakistan. If the police have any information, they should consult the concerned seminary and its administration.”
He underscored the distinction between Afghan refugees and illegal migrants, expressing Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring that Afghan nationals living legally in Pakistan face no issues.
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Addressing the issue of terrorism, he stressed that both countries should cooperate in preventing individuals from either side from engaging in acts of terrorism in the neighbouring country.
He called for a direct channel of communication between the governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan to address concerns and resolve issues.
Ashrafi highlighted the sacrifices made by Pakistan for the cause of peace in the region, including hosting almost four million Afghan refugees.
He also reminded that Pakistan had supported Afghanistan against the Soviet Union and suffered significant losses during the war on terror, with over 80,000 Pakistanis martyred.
Regarding the current situation in Afghanistan, he expressed hope in the interim government and Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to bring stability to the region. He urged cooperation between both nations in facilitating the return of illegal Afghan migrants while ensuring the protection of those who were living legally in Pakistan.
Ashrafi stressed the importance of collaboration between religious scholars and political leaders from both Pakistan and Afghanistan to promote regional peace. He called for open channels of communication and the removal of misunderstandings that could be exploited by outsiders to create divisions between the two countries.
He also addressed the global issues of Palestine and Kashmir, emphasising the need for unity in addressing oppression and finding peaceful solutions to these long-standing conflicts.
The accompanied religious scholars echoed the sentiment that regional peace was a shared goal, and both Pakistan and Afghanistan must work together to eliminate the threat of terrorism and foster stability in the region.
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