Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized the persistent security challenges in the region and urged the United States to retrieve the military equipment left behind in Afghanistan following its withdrawal.
Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that the presence of these weapons in Afghanistan poses a significant threat to regional peace and stability, as reported by *Express News*. He reiterated Pakistan’s desire for positive relations with Afghanistan but expressed concern over Afghan territory being used to facilitate terrorism against Pakistan. Khan emphasized that Pakistan has consistently urged the Afghan government to address this issue.
He also addressed the recent closure of the Torkham border, citing the construction of unauthorized posts by Afghan forces in disputed areas as the reason. Pakistan has condemned the unrest at the border and called on the Afghan interim government to take the matter seriously and resolve it promptly.
In addition, Khan shared details of a recent phone call between Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, and the US National Security Advisor. During the conversation, the US official praised Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and expressed gratitude for its cooperation. Dar congratulated the US National Security Advisor on his new role, and both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration. The US official also acknowledged the importance of retrieving the military equipment left in Afghanistan.
**Engagement with UAE Counterpart:**
Khan further revealed that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received a call from the UAE’s Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who extended Ramadan greetings to Pakistan’s leadership and its people. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the recent visit by the UAE Crown Prince to Pakistan and discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation across various fields.
**Participation in OIC Conference:**
The spokesperson announced that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will travel to Saudi Arabia to attend the upcoming Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) conference in Jeddah. During the meeting, Dar will highlight Pakistan’s stance on the Palestinian right to self-determination and address the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in Palestine caused by Israeli aggression.
Khan added that Dar will also discuss the unethical and illegal proposals to displace Palestinians from their homeland. The conference will serve as a platform for Pakistan to reaffirm its steadfast support for the Palestinian people and their struggle for justice.
**Condemnation of Israeli Actions:**
Pakistan has strongly condemned Israel’s imposition of restrictions on Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan. The spokesperson stressed that the people of Gaza should be allowed to freely practice their religious rituals, including prayers in mosques. Pakistan also denounced Israel’s decision to block the entry of essential humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling it a violation of basic human rights.
Pakistan continues to advocate for peace, stability, and justice in the region, urging the international community to address these pressing issues.
