Pakistan’s response to Afghan Statements

Pakistan has condemned the terrorist attack on the Serena Hotel in Kabul, which claimed many innocent lives. A Pakistani national has also sustained serious injuries and remains under treatment.

It is highly disturbing that attempts are being made to somehow implicate Pakistan in this terrorist incident. We reject the insinuation. The tendency to immediately blame Pakistan is unhelpful and should be discarded.

We are also surprised to see the Afghan Interior Ministry expressing concern over the recently-initiated dialogue process with TTP, even though the Afghan leadership, at the highest level, has been expressing its support for this initiative. As for the Afghan elections, Pakistan has repeatedly underlined its support for efforts to ensure a free and fair electoral process.

Pakistan remains committed to building a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with Afghanistan. This, however, requires a conducive environment for constructive engagement.

Islamabad
24 March 2014

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