PM urges Taliban govt to curb terror groups, stop use of Afghan soil for attacks

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the Afghan interim government to immediately rein in terrorist organisrations and ensure that Afghan soil is not used for any form of terrorism, Express News reported on Sunday.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz spoke to journalists in London, sharing that his recent visit to Belarus was fruitful.

The PM noted that Pakistan is blessed with vast mineral resources and that he visited a factory in Belarus that manufactures mining equipment. He expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in this sector as well.

He announced that an understanding has been reached with Belarus to provide employment opportunities for 150,000 skilled Pakistani youth, stating that the selection process will be conducted purely on merit.

 

On Afghanistan, the PM reiterated that it is a neighbouring and brotherly country, and that both nations must strive to live as good neighbors rather than fueling conflict.

He said Pakistan has repeatedly conveyed to the Afghan interim government that, as per the Doha Agreement, Afghan soil must not be used for terrorist activities. Unfortunately, he added, groups like TTP, ISKP, and others continue to operate from Afghanistan and have carried out deadly attacks on innocent Pakistanis.

He emphasised that the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s citizens, armed forces, police, and other law enforcement agencies in the fight against terrorism will not go in vain.

Offering sincere advice to the Afghan leadership, he urged them to act swiftly against these terrorist groups and ensure that Afghanistan is not used as a base for attacks on others.

Regarding the overseas convention, the PM said it has officially begun and is a major and historic event. He welcomed overseas Pakistanis back home, praising their contributions to the country. He noted that they work tirelessly to uplift Pakistan’s global image and send billions of dollars in remittances each year.

PM Shehbaz also shared that remittances from overseas Pakistanis have significantly increased this year. He said the convention presents an excellent opportunity to engage with them, listen to their legitimate demands, and respond promptly wherever possible.