Afghanistan’s Defense Minister, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, has strongly dismissed Pakistan’s claims that India is contributing to regional tensions, describing the allegations as “unfounded, illogical, and unacceptable.”
He emphasised that Afghanistan independently manages its foreign relations and intends to deepen ties with India in alignment with its national interests.
“These accusations are groundless. Our policy will never involve using our territory against other countries. We maintain relations with India as an independent nation and will strengthen those ties within the framework of our national interests,” Mujahid stated in an interview with Al Jazeera.
Addressing Afghanistan’s relationship with Pakistan, Mujahid expressed Kabul’s desire to foster ties with Islamabad based on principles of good neighbourliness and expanded trade. “Afghanistan and Pakistan are neighbouring countries. Tensions between them serve no one. Their relationship should be founded on mutual respect and good neighbourly principles,” he added.
Mujahid also referenced the Doha agreement, noting that an upcoming meeting in Turkey will focus on its implementation and monitoring. He cautioned that Pakistan’s non-compliance with the agreement could lead to issues and urged mediating countries, such as Turkey and Qatar, to help ensure adherence.
On Afghanistan’s broader policy, Mujahid reiterated that the country does not support armed groups targeting any nation, including Pakistan, and stressed that Afghans would “bravely” defend their homeland if attacked.
Also Read: Pakistan-Afghanistan to hold talks in Doha after border clashes
Strained Afghanistan-Pakistan Relations
Relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been tense since the withdrawal of US-led forces and the Taliban’s return to power. Recent border clashes have resulted in dozens of deaths and significant damage. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban government of providing safe havens to militant groups, particularly the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) and its affiliates, which are reportedly responsible for a surge in attacks on Pakistani security forces.
According to a Pakistani security source, over 100 security personnel and police officers were killed in October alone in attacks launched from Afghanistan.The escalating violence has prompted Pakistan to deport large numbers of Afghan migrants and asylum seekers, who have been blamed for criminal activities and forcibly returned across the border.
Pakistan’s military has also accused India of supporting the TTP, a claim that New Delhi has firmly denied. India’s foreign ministry stated that Pakistan frequently attributes its internal security challenges to its neighbours.
Also Read: Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to immediate ceasefire
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