Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasised that the use of Afghan territory to promote terrorism against neighbouring countries is not just Pakistan's concern.
During a press briefing on September 5, Baloch stated that Pakistan has repeatedly provided evidence of terrorist group hideouts in Afghanistan. She also highlighted recent UN reports that underscored the presence and activity of terrorist groups in the country.
Baloch urged the Taliban to take decisive action against these groups and ensure that they do not carry out attacks on Pakistan.
In response to comments from the Taliban’s Chief of Army Staff, Fasihuddin Fitrat, who claimed that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) controls areas within Pakistan and operates from there, Baloch reiterated Islamabad's stance. She noted that Pakistan has, on several occasions, shared evidence of terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan.
Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, attacks by militant groups, particularly TTP, have surged in Pakistan.
Pakistani officials consistently claim that the Afghan Taliban provides refuge to TTP fighters, a charge the Afghan Taliban continues to deny.
Pakistan Supports Right To Education for Afghan Girls
In response to another question about the Taliban's recent restrictions on women and girls, the spokesperson for Pakistan’s foreign ministry said that Islamabad’s stance on the rights of women and girls, particularly their inherent right to education, is clear and consistent.
Baloch stated that Pakistan believes every man and woman has an inherent right to education in accordance with Islamic teachings.
She further emphasised that Islam guarantees equal access to education and other rights for women, including inheritance and public participation.
She concluded by stating that the Constitution of Pakistan enshrines these rights for women, expressing hope for similar protections for women across the region.
She added that Islam is a religion of equality and grants women the right to education, inheritance, and public participation. She emphasised that Islam guarantees women the right to a dignified life free from violence.
