Pakistan lodges protest with Afghanistan over Bajaur Taliban attack

Pakistan denies it shelled Afghan civilians, clarifying that troops and aviation only fired at attackers.

ISLAMABAD: After a military check post came under heavy attack from the Taliban in Bajaur early on Saturday, Pakistan lodged a formal complaint with Afghanistan.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan summoned the Afghan Charge d’ Affairs in Islamabad and a protest was lodged.

The matter was also taken up by the Pakistan ambassador in Kabul who contacted the Afghan Foreign Ministry to complain about the issue.

The attack on the military post on Nao Top in Bajaur Agency had left one soldier dead and injured two others. As many as 14 Taliban were also killed as Pakistani forces repulsed the attack.

The statement further added that Pakistan troops responded with artillery and aviation support. However, any allegations about shelling on Afghan civilians inside Afghanistan were incorrect. “Pakistan aviation only fired on attacking terrorists,” the statement read.

“Pakistan's concerns about miscreants attacking from the other side of the border have been repeatedly shared with Afghan authorities. We hope effective steps would be taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents”.

The statement added that Pakistan would continue to exercise restraint and make efforts to maintain conducive environment for constructive engagement.

“We remain committed to maintaining a tranquil border especially in the run-up to second round of Afghan elections.”