Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari, has issued a strong statement in response to recent violations of Pakistan’s sovereignty by Afghanistan, declaring that Pakistan will not compromise on its national interests, regional sovereignty, or security under any circumstances.
In an official statement, President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan has always advocated for peace, development, and brotherhood in the region. However, he expressed serious concern over recent incidents and terrorist attacks launched from Afghan soil. He warned that the nexus of “Khawarij” (extremist insurgents) and Indian-sponsored terrorism poses a grave threat to Pakistan’s peace and stability, affecting both civilians and security personnel.
Referring to United Nations reports, President Zardari stated that terrorist attacks originating from Afghan territory are a documented fact and not hidden from the international community. He called on the Afghan leadership to take immediate and concrete action against anti-Pakistan terrorist elements operating within its borders.
Expressing regret, the President noted that the Afghan leadership has turned its back on the oppressed people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, thereby acting unjustly towards both history and the broader Muslim Ummah.
He reiterated that Pakistan will never accept any controversial or misleading narrative regarding the Kashmir issue, adding that all Indian claims are illegal under international law and United Nations resolutions.
President Zardari also reminded the world that Pakistan hosted Afghan refugees for over four decades, demonstrating Islamic brotherhood and exemplary neighborly relations. He stressed that the dignified return of Afghan citizens and the restoration of peace in Afghanistan are in the best interest of both nations.
He added that the war against terrorism is a shared responsibility and cannot be shouldered by one country alone. Pakistan, he said, has consistently extended support for the educational and humanitarian needs of the Afghan people and will continue to do so.
The President further said that while Pakistan has facilitated Afghanistan in trade, economic cooperation, and connectivity, such goodwill must not be mistaken for weakness or a willingness to compromise on sovereignty.
President Zardari affirmed that Pakistan desires a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan. However, he emphasized that brotherly relations must be based on mutual respect, security cooperation and commitment to regional peace.
He expressed hope that the interim Afghan government would prevent its soil from being used by terrorist groups, asserting that only joint and practical efforts can ensure lasting peace in the region.
