Pakistan communicates with Afghanistan to take significant steps in eliminating the risk of terrorism from Pakistan.

Pakistan urges Afghanistan to act against terrorism:

Pakistan wants Afghanistan to evacuate its territory from terrorist groups, especially Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, which is misusing Afghan territory to attack Pakistan. Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan made the statement during a routine press briefing. He stressed that terrorism remains the biggest hurdle in building strong ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Khan stated, “We’ve been making efforts to strengthen our ties, but terrorism and safe havens for militants continue to be the biggest roadblock.”

Awaiting real progress:

Pakistan and Afghanistan had earlier agreed to hold the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting before mid-April, but Khan did not confirm a final date. He said Pakistan would share updates when arrangements become more concrete. In May, Pakistan’s representative for Afghanistan visited Kabul. While visiting Kabul, Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq talked about trade, border security and the refugee situation.

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The visit was termed “very successful,” with several agreements reached on follow-up actions. However, despite positive signs, underlying tensions remain unresolved. Pakistan is growing increasingly frustrated by Afghanistan’s lack of action against terror outfits operating from its territory.

Peace talks could collapse:

Ambassador Sadiq warned that if the Taliban government does not take steps to curb terrorism, all existing agreements between the two countries could fall apart. His statements clearly reflected Pakistan’s stance that to build better relations, Pakistan will not compromise on its security concerns.

The Taliban’s return and the rise in tensions:

After taking control of Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has hoped for stability and peaceful regional cooperation under the Taliban’s leadership. But since then, things have become more complicated. Pakistan is not happy with the Taliban government as it has allowed the misuse of its soil against Pakistan’s security. These incidents have damaged not only diplomatic relations but also security and economic collaboration between the two countries.

India’s Waqf Amendment Act:

Shafqat Ali Khan criticised the Waqf Amendment Bill as seemingly unjust and discriminatory to Indian Muslims. Pakistan believes the new law targets the religious and economic rights of Indian Muslims. According to Khan, the amendment allows the government to take over properties like mosques, shrines, and other religious sites that are traditionally owned or managed by the Muslim community.

Growing fears of marginalisation:

The Waqf Amendment Bill may marginalise Indian Muslims. Khan also fears that the new law may weak or wreck the situation of Indian Muslims. Leaders and lawmakers within India have also spoken out against the bill. They said it could violate constitutional protections for religious freedom and community rights.