Pakistan rejects allegations of involvement in Helmand clashes

FO denies claims 'by certain Afghan officials linking Pakistan security personnel with the armed clashes.'

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected allegations of Pakistan's involvement in the Helmand civil war in Afghanistan, terming them baseless, Express News reported on Tuesday.  

In a press release, the ministry rejected allegations "by certain Afghan officials linking Pakistan security personnel with the armed clashes in Helmand."

It further stated that at this crucial time when Pakistan is engaged in serious efforts with Afghanistan to address common challenges, it is imperative to refrain from making such comments.

The clash in Helmand began in the district of Sangin where hundreds of Taliban insurgents attacked Afghan police posts and civilians. The clashes soon spread to three other districts of Helmand.

"The Taliban fighters who are active here are supported by the military of Pakistan and Pakistani Taliban," Chief of Army Staff Shir Mohammad Karimi said, according to ToloNews.