Pakistan links major regional projects to security concerns

Speaking at a press conference, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andarabi said the success of multi-billion-dollar initiatives such as the TAPI gas pipeline, CASA-1000 power project, and other ventures launched after recent high-level Pakistani visits to Kabul hinges on the Afghan authorities ending their alleged backing of militant outfits.

“The success of all these projects is incumbent upon the Afghan Taliban regime halting its support and abetment to terrorist outfits operating from Afghan soil,” Andarabi said.

Addressing recent reports about the Afghan commerce minister’s visit to India, Andarabi said Islamabad views such developments as interactions between two sovereign states. He added that Pakistan remains committed to regional trade connectivity and improving commercial ties, but emphasized that Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan are “based on their own merit and not on third-party involvement.”

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between the two neighbors, following Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan and clashes near the Durand Line.

Pakistani officials have repeatedly claimed that attacks in the country are organized in Afghanistan. The IEA, however, denies the claim.