ASHGABAT: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif here on Friday raised concerns about the rising threat of terrorism originating from Afghan soil and urged the international community to press the Taliban Afghan regime in Kabul to fulfill its responsibilities.
Speaking at a forum in Ashgabat to mark the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, he praised the city’s stunning white marble architecture and the warmth of the Turkmen people’s hospitality.
He spoke on the growing threat of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and urged the global community to hold the Afghan government accountable for addressing this issue.
Sharif said resolving conflicts peacefully was a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and pointed out Pakistan’s critical role in securing the Gaza peace plan, which brought a ceasefire and relief to millions of Palestinians. He also expressed strong support for UN Security Council Resolution 2788, which aligns with Pakistan’s vision for peace and stability.
The premier also highlighted Pakistan’s role as an active participant in the Arab-Islamic countries’ group, contributing significantly to peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East. He stressed the need for durable ceasefires and the continued provision of humanitarian aid to regions in conflict.
Sharif praised Turkmenistan’s leadership in global peace efforts and called for a shift in international thinking, urging countries to move beyond zero-sum mentalities and embrace collaboration. He stressed the importance of building bridges between nations, not just through trade, but also by connecting people and ideas.
Earlier, Prime Minister Sharif, accompanied by other world leaders, visited Turkmenistan’s Neutrality Monument in Ashgabat, where they laid wreaths to honor the country’s commitment to neutrality.
The event was attended by prominent leaders, including Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
