ISLAMABAD, Oct 29 (APP) – Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism through a comprehensive strategy that combines security operations with diplomatic engagement. He said every possible resource would be utilized to destroy terrorist networks, dismantle their hideouts, and bring their facilitators to justice.
In a statement on social media platform X, Tarar wrote that protecting Pakistani citizens remains the government’s foremost priority. “We will continue to take all necessary steps to safeguard our people from terrorism,” he said, emphasizing that the state will use all available means to neutralize militants and their supporters.
Security first, diplomacy with caution
Tarar said the Taliban regime in Afghanistan operates under a “war economy” and has shown little responsibility toward its own citizens. Despite Pakistan’s consistent efforts for regional peace, he said, the regime in Kabul has ignored Islamabad’s repeated warnings about cross-border attacks.
Pakistan has endured heavy human and material losses over the past four years due to the activities of groups operating from Afghan soil, he said. The government’s patience, Tarar added, has reached its limit as militant threats continue to rise.
He noted that Pakistan’s engagement with the Afghan Taliban was initiated at the request of Qatar and Türkiye to give peace one final opportunity. Multiple rounds of talks were held in Doha and Istanbul, focusing on a single issue — urging the Taliban to prevent the use of Afghan territory by terrorist organizations for training, logistics, and attacks inside Pakistan.
Dialogue and regional cooperation
Tarar thanked Qatar and Türkiye for hosting the talks and for their diplomatic efforts to convince the Afghan Taliban to end their support for terror proxies. He said that since the Taliban took control of Kabul, Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns about cross-border terrorism involving Indian-backed groups such as Fitna al Khwarij (TTP) and Fitna al Hindustan (BLA).
He added that Pakistan has reminded the Taliban to fulfill their written commitments under the Doha Agreement, both to Pakistan and the international community. However, he said, the regime’s continued support for anti-Pakistan elements has rendered Islamabad’s diplomatic initiatives ineffective.
Evidence presented, but no results
According to Tarar, during the four days of dialogue, Pakistan presented solid evidence of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan, which was acknowledged by both the Taliban delegation and the host countries. However, he said the Afghan side failed to provide any firm assurances or commitments to address the issue.
“Instead of tackling the core concern of cross-border terrorism, the Taliban avoided responsibility and shifted blame,” Tarar said, adding that the discussions ended without any practical outcome.
Regional partners appreciated
Tarar expressed gratitude to the governments of Qatar, Türkiye, and other friendly nations for their constructive role in supporting peace efforts. He said their commitment reflects a shared desire for stability and prosperity in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the wider region.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s national security comes before all other considerations. “Our forces are fully capable of defending the country,” he said. “Pakistan will continue to pursue peace, but it will never compromise on its security.”
This news was originally published by Associated Press of Pakistan.