Pakistan urges US to reclaim Afghan weapons for regional peace

FO highlights concerns over Afghan soil being used for terrorism against Pakistan.

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Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has highlighted the ongoing security challenges in the region, calling for the United States to reclaim the weapons it left behind in Afghanistan during the withdrawal.

According to spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, the presence of these weapons in Afghanistan has become a significant issue for regional peace and stability, Express News reported.

He mentioned that Pakistan desires good neighbourly relations with Afghanistan, but Afghan territory is being used for terrorism against Pakistan, and the country has repeatedly urged the Afghan government to address this issue.

Shafqat Ali Khan added that the Torkham border has been closed due to Afghan forces constructing posts in disputed areas. Pakistan condemns the unrest at the Torkham border and calls for the Afghan interim government to resolve this matter seriously.

He also shared that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had received a call from the US National Security Advisor, who praised Pakistan’s efforts against terrorism and thanked President Trump for his support. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister also congratulated the National Security Advisor on assuming his position.

Shafqat Ali Khan mentioned that the US National Security Advisor reaffirmed the commitment to continue cooperation with Pakistan. He also appreciated President Trump's announcement to retrieve the military equipment left in Afghanistan.

UAE counterpart’s call:

The spokesperson informed that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also received a call from his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who congratulated Pakistan’s leadership and people on the occasion of Ramadan.

The two sides appreciated the positive outcomes of the UAE Crown Prince’s visit to Pakistan, and discussions were held to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Participation in the OIC conference:

Shafqat Ali Khan further stated that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Saudi Arabia to participate in the upcoming OIC meeting in Jeddah. During the conference, he will address the issue of the Palestinian right to self-determination.

He revealed that Ishaq Dar will present Pakistan’s stance on the deteriorating situation in Palestine and the Israeli aggression against Palestinians, along with discussing the humanitarian crisis arising from the conflict.

Shafqat Ali Khan noted that discussions would include the illegal and unethical proposals to displace Palestinians from their homeland. The conference will reaffirm Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people.

Condemnation of Israeli restrictions:

Pakistan strongly condemns Israel’s restrictions on Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan.

The spokesperson stated that the people of Gaza should be allowed to offer prayers in mosques during Ramadan. Pakistan also condemns Israel’s decision to block the entry of essential aid into Gaza.