Islamabad: Pakistan would continue to remain engaged in the mediation process and hopes for a positive outcome for the next round of talks between Islamabad and the Taliban regime on the 6th of next month. This was stated by Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Tahir Hussain Andrabi at his weekly media briefing in Islamabad today.

According to Radio Pakistan, the spokesperson emphasized that the government and the Armed Forces of Pakistan are prepared to take all necessary measures to protect the nation’s sovereignty and ensure the security and safety of its citizens. Pakistan participated in the Istanbul talks with the intent to positively engage with the Taliban regime, while maintaining its stance that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorism against Pakistan.

Ambassador Andrabi clarified that Pakistan does not seek further escalation but expects the Afghan Taliban regime to honor its commitments to the international community. This involves addressing Pakistan’s security concerns by taking concrete actions against terrorist entities including Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan. For the past four years, Pakistan has urged the Taliban to take decisive actions against these groups.

He highlighted that despite sharing credible information with the Taliban regime regarding the presence of terrorist leaders on Afghan soil, there has been a surge in attacks in Pakistan originating from Afghanistan. The spokesperson pointed out the disregard of Pakistan’s security concerns by the Taliban regime and the unprovoked aggression supported by Fitna al Khawarij, which have led to violent exchanges across the border.

Pakistan has responded firmly to Afghan provocations, which aim to destabilize the border area and facilitate terrorism. The country will continue to respond resolutely if provocations persist. Ambassador Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s desire for a peaceful and stable region and an integrated, prosperous Afghanistan.

He also acknowledged and appreciated the constructive roles played by Qatar and Turkiye in seeking a peaceful resolution to the issue. In response to a question, the spokesperson expressed optimism about the outcome of the upcoming talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime.