Pakistan has urged Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities to move away from what Islamabad describes as a “militant mindset” and adopt the approach of a responsible state.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar made the remarks at a seminar in Islamabad focused on Afghanistan’s situation and prospects for peace. He said the challenges between the two neighbouring countries are complex and require a lasting solution.
Tarar said Pakistan believes in peace, dialogue and peaceful coexistence with Afghanistan, and recalled that Islamabad has sent several high-level delegations to Kabul to help resolve outstanding issues.
He also pointed to previous rounds of talks held in Türkiye and Qatar, saying diplomatic efforts have continued despite persistent disagreements between the two sides.
Relations have deteriorated in recent weeks amid Pakistan’s accusations that militant groups are operating from Afghan territory. Kabul has rejected those allegations.
The latest tensions have also included cross-border drone incidents and Pakistani strikes on what Islamabad described as militant locations inside Afghanistan.
Tarar said Pakistan does not seek escalation and believes regional peace is essential for economic development, trade and connectivity.
He called on the Afghan interim government to take credible and verifiable action against militant groups and work toward a peaceful relationship with Pakistan.
The comments come as both sides face pressure to prevent further escalation along their long and volatile border.
