Pakistan Rejects Latest Afghan Allegations

Responding to questions about recent statements by Afghanistan’s National Security Council and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Spokesperson said it is deeply dismaying that the spate of Afghan allegations, maligning Pakistan’s national security institutions, continues unabated. Pakistan reiterates its categorical rejection of Afghan allegations of involvement in terrorist attacks, insurgent activities or cross-border shelling. We also firmly reject any statements casting aspersions on Pakistan’s commitment to fight terrorism.

As we have repeatedly emphasized, terrorism is a common enemy afflicting the whole region and concerted efforts must be made by all sides for combating it effectively. Leveling of baseless allegations serves no useful purpose. It only benefits the enemies of peace and undermines the prospects of a cordial relationship between the fraternal peoples of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The launch of Operation Zarb-e-Azb is the clearest reflection of Pakistan’s resolve to fight terrorism without any discrimination or distinction. The Operation is dictated by Pakistan’s own national interest, and is backed by national consensus. To ensure optimal results, it is imperative that necessary steps are taken by the Afghan authorities on their side of the border in blocking the fleeing terrorists and eliminating terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan territory. It is equally essential that effective measures are instituted to strengthen border controls and surveillance.

Pakistan remains committed to building friendly and good-neighbourly relations with Afghanistan, based on the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. We hope that the Afghan side would reciprocate our policy of restraint and responsibility and our continued efforts for constructive engagement. It is essential to maintain a conducive environment for the continued development of cooperative and mutually-beneficial ties between the two countries.

Islamabad
7 August 2014

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