Fix Your Own Problems Before Lecturing Us, Pakistan Tells Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday strongly rejected a recent statement by the Afghan Foreign Ministry regarding the political situation in the country, calling it “unacceptable” and urging the Afghan interim government (AIG) to address its own domestic challenges instead of commenting on Pakistan’s affairs.

In a firm response, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch criticized the remarks made by Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, describing them as “frivolous” and an inappropriate interference in Pakistan’s internal matters.

“Rather than lecturing a democratic country, the AIG should focus on addressing its own internal issues, particularly by promoting inclusivity and addressing the needs and aspirations of its people, including the right to education for women and girls,” Baloch said. She highlighted that Afghan women have had their rights severely restricted under the current regime due to a “misguided interpretation of religion.”

The spokesperson also called on the Afghan government to fulfill its international commitments, particularly by denying safe havens to terrorist groups that threaten regional peace and stability. “Afghanistan must ensure that its soil is not used as a base for global terrorism,” Baloch added.

Pakistan, Baloch reiterated, remains committed to peace, dialogue, and regional cooperation and expects Afghanistan and other neighboring countries to uphold responsible international conduct and respect the principles of interstate relations.

The statement underscores the growing tensions between the two nations as Pakistan calls for the Afghan government to focus on its own governance issues and security responsibilities.