Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan is
prepared to engage in talks with Kabul if the Afghan side agrees to meet
Islamabad’s justified conditions following the recent escalation of cross
border hostilities.
The announcement came after Pakistan & Afghanistan
agreed to a temporary 48-hour ceasefire on 15th October, requested by the
Afghan Taliban & implemented with mutual consent, aimed at preventing
further conflict.
Addressing the federal cabinet, the premier emphasised
that the ball is in Kabul’s court. “If they are sincere & serious, they
should take steps to initiate talks,” he said, noting that allied nations,
particularly Qatar, are actively assisting in deescalation efforts.
He emphasised that any lasting solution must include the
complete removal of the Afghan Taliban, linked to the banned TTP, from Afghan
territory to fully protect Pakistan’s security.
PM Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s repeated diplomatic
engagement with Kabul, stating that despite numerous visits & cordial
dialogues, the Afghan side had not addressed the concerns adequately.
He criticised Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi for
being in New Delhi amid ongoing hostilities, which forced Pakistan to respond
decisively to protect its territory & personnel.
The premier also praised the armed forces & Field
Marshal Asim Munir for their necessary & measured response to the
aggression.
On the international front, the premier acknowledged
Qatar’s role in condemning the recent clashes & supporting deescalation,
reflecting the importance of regional diplomacy in conflict resolution.
He also addressed the Gaza ceasefire, commending global
efforts including those of the US & Muslim majority countries to halt
hostilities & emphasising Pakistan’s continued advocacy for Palestinian
statehood.
The prime minister’s remarks underscored Pakistan’s focus
on national security, highlighting diplomacy, military readiness &
international cooperation as key pillars in navigating regional and global
challenges.
