The European Union has requested restraint and dialogue as crisis mounts between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said that she had been deeply concerned by the escalating wave of violence in South Asia and urged both sides to de-escalate the situation.
Kallas emphasised the importance of relaxation of tensions through diplomatic engagement. She also called on the Afghan de facto authorities to take firm action against terrorist groups that are operating from Afghan soil.
She made it clear that Afghan territory must not be used against any other country under any circumstances.
The wider international community has also expressed serious concern over the recent instances of clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Several countries have called on both sides not to further escalate the situation and reach an agreement by peaceful means.
Turkey has been an active player in stepping in to help ease the crisis. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held separate phone calls with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister, and Foreign Minister of the Afghan Taliban, Amir Khan Muttaqi.
Iran has also offered to play a constructive role. Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi offered to make sincere efforts to mediate between Islamabad and Kabul in order to stop any more deterioration of relationships.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom as well as Russia, China and Malaysia have all expressed concern over the cross-border clashes.
A spokesman from China’s Foreign Ministry said the two countries should restrain themselves and settle disputes through talks and negotiations.
Beijing also called for an immediate halt to hostilities as well as taking practical steps to reduce tensions.
The British Foreign Secretary put stress on the need for urgent de-escalation measures.
Similarly, Russia’s Foreign Ministry also called upon Pakistan and Afghanistan to prevent a dangerous confrontation with each other and resolve their differences by political and diplomatic means.
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