UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has reaffirmed its resolve to safeguard its national security, with its Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, stating that the country remains vigilant against what he described as India’s attempts to undermine regional stability.
Speaking during a Right of Reply at the UN Security Council, Ambassador Asim said Pakistan would not allow any external actor to support terrorism or jeopardize its sovereignty. He asserted that Islamabad had successfully countered such threats in the past and would continue to respond firmly whenever required.
The envoy accused India of pursuing policies aimed at destabilising Pakistan through militant groups allegedly operating from Afghan territory. He maintained that Pakistan would remain committed to protecting its national interests against such challenges.
Highlighting Pakistan’s engagement with Afghanistan, Ambassador Asim said Islamabad has consistently supported the Afghan people through humanitarian assistance, political dialogue, trade facilitation, and transit concessions. He added that Pakistan had hoped the Taliban administration would develop into a responsible government capable of ensuring peace and stability.
However, he expressed concern that terrorism continues to pose a serious challenge in Afghanistan, affecting neighbouring countries and the wider region. He said Afghan soil is still being used by militant organisations, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Majeed Brigade, Daesh-Khorasan, and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.
The Pakistani envoy noted that Islamabad had expected the Taliban authorities to take decisive action against these groups but said its security concerns, along with those of other countries, had not been adequately addressed.
Reiterating Pakistan’s position, Ambassador Asim said terrorism originating from Afghanistan has claimed the lives of hundreds of Pakistani civilians and security personnel. He revealed that more than 1,200 Pakistanis were killed in terrorist attacks last year and stressed that the country would continue taking all necessary measures to defend its people and preserve national security.
