Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has cautioned that Pakistan's ties with Afghanistan are worsening, warning that the existing situation could further strain bilateral relations — an outcome Islamabad is keen to avoid.
Talking to a private TV channel, the minister acknowledged that Islamabad's relations with Kabul have never been ideal, noting that terrorist activities are being orchestrated from Afghan territory into Pakistan.
"Pakistan seeks relations based on mutual respect and dignity, like those shared by good neighbours," he said, urging Afghanistan to collaborate in tackling cross-border terrorism.
Islamabad and Kabul are experiencing heightened tensions as the interim Afghan government remains reluctant to take action against terrorist groups operating from its soil, amid a surge in terror attacks in Pakistan.
Pakistan has seen a sharp rise in cross-border terrorist incidents since the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, with most attacks occurring in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The two countries share a porous 2,500-kilometre border dotted with several crossing points that serve as vital channels for regional trade and people-to-people interact ion on both sides.
During the interview, Asif noted that residents of regions where terrorists take shelter are often aware of their whereabouts.
"If an outsider enters a neighbourhood, I would know within three days," he remarked, adding that the locals' silence in such situations amounts to tacit approval.
Speaking about India, the defence minister said New Delhi's recent statements suggested it might be planning another misadventure.
He added that India was attempting to regain its lost pride after facing humiliation and warned that Pakistan's response would be even stronger this time. "India's earlier misconceptions or delusions have already been shattered," he asserted.
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