Pakistan’s Permanent Representative at the United Nations Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has said that terrorism emanating from Afghanistan is the biggest threat to Pakistan’s national security.
During a briefing at the United Nations Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan, Asim Iftikhar pointed out that more than 60 camps of terrorist groups, including the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), are active in Afghanistan, posing a grave security threat.
Asim Iftikhar said that the Taliban authorities must fulfil their international obligations related to counter-terrorism.
He stated that Pakistan and China have requested sanctions against banned organisations like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Majeed Brigade, noting that terrorists were involved in attacks on Pakistan from Afghan safe havens.
The Pakistani envoy added that the evidence submitted included joint training, illegal arms trafficking, harbouring terrorists, and coordinated attacks aimed at targeting civilians and law enforcement in Pakistan, as well as disrupting and sabotaging infrastructure and development projects.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar emphasised that the Taliban authorities must fulfil their international responsibilities and eliminate terrorist sanctuaries.
He further stated that the international community must play a role in establishing a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.