Pakistan calls for dialogue with Afghanistan after deadly border clashes

Pakistan has called for diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan following one of the deadliest border clashes in recent years, which left dozens of soldiers dead or wounded on both sides.

In a statement released Sunday, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for dialogue and cooperation with Kabul, even as tensions remain high.

“Pakistan greatly values dialogue, diplomacy, and mutually beneficial relations with Afghanistan. The fight against terrorism is a shared objective,” the ministry said.

The clashes erupted Saturday along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, marking a major escalation in violence since the Islamic Emirate regained power in 2021.While the exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear, both sides suffered heavy casualties.

Pakistan’s military confirmed that 23 soldiers were killed and 29 others injured in the fighting.Afghan sources, meanwhile, claimed nine of their soldiers were killed and alleged that 58 Pakistani troops had died.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry noted that while it remains committed to diplomacy, it is also prepared to act if necessary. “Islamabad continues to closely monitor the situation and will take all necessary measures to safeguard its territory and the lives of its citizens,” the statement warned.

Afghan officials said the fighting subsided following mediation efforts led by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, though there has been no official confirmation from either of the mediating countries.