EU urges Pakistan, Afghanistan to engage in dialogue to reduce rising tensions

BRUSSELS: The European Union has called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to reduce rising tensions between the two neighboring countries.

In a statement issued from Brussels, the EU urged both sides to de-escalate the situation and resolve their differences through diplomatic channels. The bloc expressed concern over the growing wave of violence in South Asia and stressed the importance of maintaining regional stability.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas voiced serious concern over the deteriorating security situation. She called on the Afghan de facto authorities to take effective action against terrorist groups and reiterated that Afghan territory must not be used against any other country.

Meanwhile, Turkey has also stepped in to help ease tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held separate telephone conversations with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to discuss the evolving situation.

In addition, Iran has offered to play a sincere role in facilitating reconciliation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed willingness to support efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and stability between the two countries.