ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister PM Shehbaz Sharif has called on the international community to exert global pressure on Kabul to meet its obligations, warning that Pakistan is facing a new terror threat emanating from Afghanistan under the Taliban-led administration.
Speaking at a high-level forum in Turkmenistan marking the International Year of Peace and Trust 2025, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of the country’s permanent neutrality, the premier said peaceful conflict resolution remains the foundation of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
His remarks come amid strained ties between Islamabad and Kabul over a surge in terrorist attacks that Pakistan attributes to Afghan nationals. The relationship deteriorated further after week-long border clashes in October, triggered when Taliban forces and affiliated militants allegedly launched an unprovoked assault on Pakistani border posts on October 12. Although a ceasefire has held since, the two sides have yet to agree on measures to curb cross-border attacks.
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Support for Gaza, Kashmir, and Regional Peace
Reaffirming Pakistan’s backing for the Gaza peace plan endorsed by the UN Security Council, PM Shehbaz expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts will secure an enduring ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian access, and aid Gaza’s reconstruction. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the rights of Palestinians and the Kashmiri people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, linking sustainable peace to inclusive development.
Highlighting the government’s domestic priorities, the premier said socio-economic development remains at the core of his administration’s agenda. He noted progress in financial inclusion, women’s participation in the economy, and support for marginalized communities.
Climate Change ‘A Transnational Threat’
PM Shehbaz also underscored Pakistan’s efforts to combat climate change, noting that the country has become a global example in ecosystem restoration. However, he cautioned that developing nations continue to face climate-driven disasters and inequalities in the international financial system.
Calling climate change, poverty, and inequality transnational challenges, he urged collective solutions built on shared responsibility. The prime minister stressed that equitable access to advanced and digital technologies is essential and should not be restricted by discrimination or political considerations.
He further encouraged investment in connectivity projects, saying they should serve as pathways for prosperity, cultural exchange, and collaboration—not merely transport links.
PM’s Two-Day Visit to Turkmenistan
Earlier, the prime minister joined world leaders at the Neutrality Monument in Ashgabat to mark the International Day of Neutrality and Turkmenistan’s 30 years of permanent neutrality. Attendees included presidents of Turkmenistan, Russia, Türkiye, Iran, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan, along with representatives of the United Nations and international organisations.
On Thursday, PM Shehbaz held talks with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and strengthening bilateral ties in trade, transport, and energy. He described Pakistan–Turkmenistan relations as “historic and fraternal,” reaffirming his resolve to expand cooperation.
The prime minister is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Power Sardar Awais Leghari, and Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar. He is scheduled to attend multiple international events bringing together global leaders and policymakers during his two-day visit.
