Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on Kabul to take firm action against militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operating from Afghan soil, stating that controlling these groups is essential for lasting peace in the region. Addressing the inaugural session of the Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference on Tuesday, he emphasized that a stable Afghanistan is critical for regional connectivity, development, and prosperity. “Afghanistan must understand that durable peace can only be achieved by curbing TTP and other terrorist organizations operating from its territory,” the prime minister said. He highlighted that Pakistan has endured challenges “both internally and externally” but has remained committed to peace and stability. Recalling the conflict with India earlier this year, which he described as “unprovoked aggression on the eastern front in May,” he praised Pakistan’s “highly professional armed forces” for executing swift land and air operations that thwarted enemy plans and demonstrated Pakistan’s firm resolve to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. “Having secured victory on the battlefield, our next task is to secure peace through sincere and collaborative efforts,” he added. Sharif warned that militant groups continue to threaten security within Afghanistan and across the region. Referring to attacks on Pakistani border posts from Afghan territory last month, he said Pakistan’s response was “firm and decisive,” sending a clear message to those who targeted the country. He acknowledged the support of friendly nations, including Qatar and Turkey, in facilitating dialogue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban authorities and reiterated Pakistan’s “steadfast commitment” to regional peace and security through constructive engagement. The prime minister’s remarks come amid a pause in bilateral talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which remain at an impasse. On Friday, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan had been suspended, with “no programme for the fourth round of talks”. The two sides had opened a third round in Istanbul on Thursday to ease tensions after last month’s deadly border clashes, following an earlier five-day engagement that produced a last-minute interim agreement. Asif thanked Turkiye and Qatar for their “sincere efforts” to mediate, saying the facilitators had done their best but ultimately lost hope.
PM urges Kabul to curb terrorist groups, including TTP, for lasting peace
