ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a firm response to what he called the “misleading and malicious” statement made by an Afghan Taliban spokesperson, reaffirming Pakistan’s unified national stance on security and regional policy.
In a post shared on his official X account, the defence minister stated that the Pakistani nation, along with its political and military leadership, stands united on matters of national security and on a comprehensive strategy regarding Afghanistan.
He said that Pakistan’s security policies and Afghan strategy enjoy broad national consensus, adding that the people of Pakistan — particularly those in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — are well aware of the terrorism perpetrated through Indian-backed proxies operating under Taliban patronage.
Highlighting the internal challenges faced by Afghanistan, Khawaja Asif said the Taliban’s unelected regime is plagued by deep internal divisions and continued repression. “The Taliban continue to oppress women, children, and minorities while denying them the rights to education, expression, and representation,” he noted.
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The minister pointed out that four years on, the Afghan Taliban have failed to fulfill the promises made to the international community. He said the regime is relying on rhetoric, propaganda, and alignment with external agendas to mask its internal instability, insecurity, and governance failures.
“The Afghan Taliban are now acting as a proxy for external elements,” he stated, contrasting this with Pakistan’s Afghan policy, which is guided by national interest and aimed at ensuring regional peace and stability.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to security, Khawaja Asif asserted:
“Pakistan will continue to take decisive action against cross-border terrorism to safeguard its citizens and defeat extremist ideologies.”
He concluded by emphasizing that false statements cannot change the facts, saying:
“Trust is built through actions, not rhetoric.”
