Pakistan responds to Russian recognition of Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan

Responding to reports of Russia’s recognition of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, on Friday stated that Russia is a key regional player with legitimate security interests and friendly ties with all countries in the region. The spokesperson highlighted that Pakistan shares warm and cordial relations with Russia.

Regarding Russia-Afghanistan ties, the spokesperson emphasized that such relations are a matter strictly between two sovereign states, and Pakistan has noted Russia’s decision.

On Pakistan’s own relationship with Afghanistan, the spokesperson reaffirmed its importance, stressing that Pakistan is committed to strengthening and enhancing bilateral ties.

“Counter-terrorism remains a sticking point which we have been flagging with the Afghan friends because the terrorists committing terrorist violence in Pakistan have sanctuaries in Afghanistan. And of course, India is involved in patronizing terrorism against Pakistan,” he said.

Russia said on Thursday it had accepted the credentials of a new ambassador of Afghanistan, making it the first nation to recognise the IEA government of the country.

Pakistani officials have repeatedly claimed that militants have sanctuaries in Afghanistan, a charge Kabul denies.