KABUL (Pajhwok): The Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister’s Office, Mullah Abdul Wasi, has said that the targeting of civilians, particularly women, children and residential areas, is unjustifiable, following recent attacks in eastern Kunar allegedly carried out by Pakistan’s military regime.
Wasi made the remarks during a meeting in Kabul with the UK Special Representative for Afghanistan, Richard Lindsay.
The Pakistani military regime carried out attacks on the provincial capital of Kunar and the districts of Marwara, Dangam and Shultan on Monday afternoon this week, martyring seven civilians and injuring 75 others, including women, children and 20 students of Sayyid Jamaluddin Afghan University.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Pakistan’s chargé d’affaires in Kabul and handed over a formal protest note.
According to a statement posted on the Presidential Palace (Arg) X account, Mullah Abdul Wasi reiterated during the meeting that while Afghanistan seeks peaceful relations with Pakistan, defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity is a “legitimate right”.
He called on the UK envoy and other international partners to assess the situation objectively and help ensure accountability.
Wasi also stressed that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has consistently sought an end to tensions and stronger ties with Pakistan, adding that Afghan soil would not be allowed to be used against any country.
He urged Pakistan to fulfil its commitments, noting that Afghan refugees have respected Pakistani laws during their decades-long stay and should not be harmed.
He added: “We have not created any obstacles to the delivery of humanitarian aid, and if Pakistan takes one step towards ending tensions, the IEA will take two steps.”
Meanwhile, Richard Lindsay expressed condolences over civilian casualties from the recent attacks and said tensions must be reduced through dialogue and confidence-building measures.
He welcomed the IEA’s stated commitment to peace, said messages had been conveyed to Pakistan to encourage restraint and cooperation, and urged both sides to take practical steps to improve relations.
Lindsay also stressed the need to ensure the uninterrupted transit of humanitarian assistance through Pakistan to Afghanistan.
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