ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the Afghan leadership to take sincere and tangible actions to address Pakistan’s legitimate security concerns, warning that lasting peace hinges on Kabul’s response to Islamabad’s repeated diplomatic outreach.
Speaking at a meeting of the Federal Cabinet in Islamabad today, the Prime Minister said Pakistan agreed to a 48-hour interim ceasefire at Afghanistan’s request, demonstrating its commitment to peace. “The ball is now in Kabul’s court,” he said, emphasizing that Pakistan remains ready for dialogue but cannot ignore threats to its national security.
He added that Pakistan was compelled to respond to recent terrorist attacks carried out from Afghan soil, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians and security personnel. Despite raising the issue through diplomatic channels, no meaningful action has been taken by Afghan authorities, the Prime Minister noted.
On international developments, Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the ceasefire deal in Gaza, calling it a significant step forward in halting the bloodshed. He acknowledged the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump, along with countries such as Pakistan, Turkiye, and Qatar, in facilitating the breakthrough.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for oppressed communities, the Prime Minister said the country will continue to stand by the people of Palestine and Kashmir in their struggle for basic rights and justice.
Turning to economic matters, the Prime Minister lauded his economic team for securing a Staff Level Agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He stressed that this should mark Pakistan’s final engagement with the IMF and underlined the urgent need to build a resilient and self-reliant economy.
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