Dialogue, not airstrikes, best way forward in Afghanistan-Pakistan tensions: EU’s Kallas

The European Union has called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to exercise restraint and seek dialogue to resolve their ongoing tensions, warning that continued hostilities could worsen humanitarian conditions and fuel instability in the region.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Monday, the EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said recent fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan had serious humanitarian consequences and posed risks to regional security.

“Pakistan has been locked in a conflict with Afghanistan. The fighting in recent weeks has had grave humanitarian consequences and also risks fuelling further instability and radicalization,” Kallas said.

She noted that the European Union had consistently urged both sides to de-escalate tensions and avoid further confrontation.

“Pakistan has the right to defend itself and its people in line with international law, but dialogue, not air strikes, is the best off-ramp in this situation,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Pakistani foreign minister also highlighted security concerns related to Afghanistan, saying the issue was discussed in detail during the meeting. He reiterated Pakistan’s position that militant attacks originating from Afghan territory remain a “top concern” for Pakistan.

The Islamic Emirate has previously rejected claims that attacks in Pakistan originate from Afghan territory.