Pakistan Endorses Trump’s Move to Retrieve Weapons from Afghanistan

Pakistan backs the Trump administration’s efforts to recover weapons left in Afghanistan, citing security concerns over their use by terrorists. Relations with the US are improving, highlighted by cooperation in counterterrorism. Pakistan desires positive ties with Afghanistan but faces challenges due to terrorism, and it reaffirms its stance on the Kashmir issue against Indian claims.

Pakistan has expressed support for the Trump administration’s intention to retrieve weapons valued at billions of dollars, which were left in Afghanistan following the US withdrawal in August 2021. Shafqat Ali Khan, a spokesperson for the Foreign Office, stated that Pakistan is concerned about these weapons being utilized by terrorists operating within its borders. He emphasized that efforts to recover these arms would enhance regional security.

President Donald Trump has criticized the Biden administration’s withdrawal strategy, insisting that the US should not have abandoned advanced weaponry in Afghanistan, especially at Bagram Airbase. Pakistan welcomes Trump’s stance, noting its apprehensions regarding the weapons being exploited by terrorist organizations.

During the weekly media briefing, Khan mentioned that discussions about Bagram Airbase are a bilateral matter between the US and Afghanistan, while highlighting that recent collaborative endeavors reflect the enduring relationship between Pakistan and the US. He also acknowledged President Trump’s commendation of Pakistan’s assistance in capturing a Daesh commander linked to the Kabul Airport attack, which resulted in the deaths of 13 US servicemen.

Pakistan’s ongoing security cooperation with the US encompasses counterterrorism and intelligence sharing. While Khan refrained from disclosing specifics regarding the nature of this cooperation, he affirmed its continuity and importance.

On relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Khan stressed Islamabad’s aspiration for amicable ties, notwithstanding the critical issue of terrorism. He asserted that the presence of terrorist groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan in Afghanistan exacerbates tension. Pakistan has raised concerns with Afghan authorities regarding these terrorists using Afghan territory to plan attacks.

Khan addressed the operational closure of the Torkham border crossing, attributing it to unilateral actions by Afghanistan, which included illegal constructions within Pakistani territory. He reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to engage in peaceful discussions despite provocations and emphasized the imprudence of Afghan actions during these economically challenging times.

The spokesperson firmly denied allegations from the Afghan Taliban government insinuating that Pakistan employs Daesh as a proxy. He described these claims as attempts to divert attention from the true nature of the security situation, which is largely rooted in Afghanistan.

In response to comments made by India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar regarding Kashmir, Khan reiterated that self-determination for the Kashmiri people cannot be substituted by military actions or elections. He made it clear that India must recognize Jammu and Kashmir as an internationally recognized disputed territory, stressing that any successful resolution must align with the wishes of the Kashmiri populace and relevant UN resolutions.

Pakistan’s cooperation with the US in capturing the ISKP figure Sharifullah illustrates its commitment to combating terrorism effectively, adhering to UN directives. Khan articulated that Pakistan’s law enforcement has achieved notable successes against ISKP, reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.

In summary, Pakistan supports the United States in recovering military weapons remaining in Afghanistan and emphasizes the necessity for regional security. The cooperation between Pakistan and the US, particularly in counterterrorism, remains robust despite ongoing challenges. Furthermore, Pakistan urges for peaceful relations with Afghanistan while asserting its position on Kashmir amid rising tensions with India. The commitment to combating terrorism is underscored by collaboration in capturing high-profile terrorists.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk