WJ slams Pakistan defense minister “irresponsible” statements

The recent statements of Pakistani defense minister faced harsh reaction of Afghanistan Wolesi Jirga (WJ), the lower house of Parliament.

Chairman of Parliament is said to consider the recent statements of Pakistani official irresponsible and contrary to the international principles.

Parliament members called on Afghan foreign minister to summon Pakistan ambassador to Kabul regarding the recent remarks by Pakistani foreign minister.

“The remarks of Pakistan defense minister were irresponsible and contrary to international principles. the foreign minister should summon Pakistan ambassador regarding the issue,” said Abdul Rauf Ibrahimi, chairman of Parliament.

Pakistani Defense Minister, Khwaja Mohammad Asif has recently said that Pakistan would use its influence on Afghan Taliban for the security of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline.

In an interview, the Pakistani minister said that TAPI project is very important for all stakeholders especially in reducing the energy crisis in Pakistan.

“Therefore, we would try our best to have this project completed on time,” Pakistani defense minister said.

While responding the question as if Pakistan would use its influence on Afghan militant groups, especially the Taliban, for the security of TAPI pipeline project, he said: “Of course, we would use it. For our interests, we would take any positive step.”

The construction work on TAPI gas pipeline is scheduled to begin on December 13.

Meanwhile, the presidential Palace has also slammed the Pakistani defense minister for delivering irresponsible remarks regarding the safety of trans-Afghan gas pipeline, calling it in contrast to non-interference commitments by the country’s leaders.

This comes as Afghan leaders expected this time that Pakistani officials honestly act by their commitments.