Pakistan’s Foreign Office has confirmed reports that Afghan authorities attempted to set up a border post on the Pakistani side at Torkham.
This development follows the closure of the Torkham border crossing last Friday, which has caused significant disruptions, Express News reported.
The Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, confirmed these efforts during a weekly briefing, highlighting the ongoing challenges at the border.
Shafqat Ali Khan explained that Afghan authorities had been attempting to create a post on the Pakistani side of the border, which would have been a violation of existing protocols.
The Pakistani government has officially raised concerns with Afghan authorities and has urged them to resolve the issue through dialogue and negotiations. “We have told Afghan authorities that this issue can be settled through proper discussions,” Shafqat Ali Khan said.
This attempt at establishing a border post is part of a broader issue of border management between the two nations. Pakistan has stated that multiple agencies are involved in managing border security and ensuring that no unilateral actions are taken by either country that could affect the overall security of the region.
Shafqat Ali Khan also addressed concerns over US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan, which is reportedly being used by terrorist groups.
“The advanced US weapons left in Afghanistan are now being used by terrorists, and some of them are even being smuggled into Pakistan,” Shafqat Ali Khan stated, further emphasising the security threat posed by these weapons.
Additionally, Shafqat Ali Khan confirmed that eight Pakistanis had been deported from the United States and returned to Pakistan. The details of their identities are being handled by the Ministry of Interior and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Pakistan is working with the US authorities to facilitate the return of these citizens.
Shafqat Ali Khan also discussed recent diplomatic engagements, including high-level visits and discussions with international leaders. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its ties with countries such as Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and the UAE.
He also mentioned the importance of further dialogue regarding Afghanistan’s role in supporting terrorism and its continued instability.
Regarding the Torkham border closure, Shafqat Ali Khan described it as a complex issue involving multiple agencies and urged all parties to seek an amicable solution to avoid further disruptions. The Foreign Office continues to monitor the situation closely and is in touch with Afghan authorities to resolve the border dispute.
