Afghan diplomat receives demarche for Chitral attack: Pakistani FM

Pakistan’s Caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, has officially confirmed the issuance of a demarche to the Afghan charge d’affaires in Islamabad. This action comes in response to the recent attack on two military posts in the Lower Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa earlier this week.

During a press conference, in response to a question about whether the issue had been discussed with the interim Afghan government, it was reported that Pakistan registered a strong protest over the incident. They summoned the Afghan Charge d’Affaires (Cd’A) in Islamabad and handed him a protest note (demarche), as per Dawn.com.

Jilani described the incident as “very unfortunate” and emphasized that Pakistan takes the increase in terrorism seriously. He stated that Afghanistan is responsible for preventing attacks from their territory.

Additionally, he spoke about a “close-knit conversation” with Kabul on an Aaj News show to reduce terrorism and build peace between both nations. He said developments so far were “positive,” and the government was actively trying to bring the two regimes together on the same page.

“Previous governments have worked to some extent in this manner, and now we are developing the existing policy. This is a closed-room dialogue with the Afghan government, and only positive developments have occurred. However, elements from both sides of the border might impact the progress. However, we are moving in the right direction,” he said.

When asked about improving relations with India and Afghanistan, he emphasized that Pakistan is actively working towards peace with neighbouring countries.

“The Indian government needs to cooperate with us on various issues, especially concerning Kashmir. I believe that without active dialogues, which benefit both of us, there will be no concrete solution,” he said.

“Our end goal is to achieve peace, and I am sure they (India and Afghanistan) also want the same,” he concluded, highlighting a shared desire for peace as the ultimate objective in Pakistan’s approach towards its neighbouring countries.

Following the Chitral attack, Pakistani officials have shut down the Torkham crossing border. This move has left Afghan traders and their properties stranded on both sides, with a significant risk of loss. Despite Afghan officials’ calls for the border’s reopening, it remains closed, causing growing concern and uncertainty.

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