ISLAMABAD: Pakistan voiced its concerns over terrorism emanating from Afghanistan during a regional meeting of special representatives from Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries and Russia, held in Tehran.
Ambassador of Pakistan to Iran, Mudassar Tipu, said Islamabad highlighted the seriousness of threats originating from Afghanistan and emphasized the need for prompt and coordinated action to address them.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering regional peace, stability, and development, urging all stakeholders to share responsibility in ensuring long-term security.
The Tehran session was inaugurated by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who underscored the regional security challenges and stressed the importance of joint strategies to tackle them. Pakistan was represented by Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq, along with Ambassador to Kabul Obaid Nizamani.
The discussions come amid warnings from senior US intelligence officials about alleged links between some Afghan nationals residing in the United States and terrorist networks. The Director of US National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, stated that over 2,000 Afghan nationals in the US are either suspected militants or have affiliations with extremist groups, posing potential risks to national and global security.
Additional information from the National Counterterrorism Center indicated that nearly 18,000 Afghan nationals who entered the US during the Biden administration were flagged for suspected ties to militant organizations.
These disclosures have reignited debates over refugee screening procedures, immigration policies, and national security safeguards, with several countries already tightening regulations on Afghan entrants due to security concerns.
