Pakistan has summoned the Afghan chargé d’affaires to the Foreign Office and lodged a strong protest over the Bannu attack. During the meeting, Pakistani authorities handed over a formal protest letter to an Afghan official, expressing serious concerns over the incident.
According to the Foreign Office, fifteen security personnel were martyred, and four others were injured in a suicide attack carried out on May 9. Initial investigations suggest that the attack was planned by terrorists operating from Afghanistan.
Pakistan expressed serious concerns over the alleged use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities against Pakistan, calling the situation unacceptable.
Speaking at a weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan is playing the role of a mediator between Iran and the United States. However, he added that it is premature to say whether the signing ceremony of any agreement would take place in Islamabad or elsewhere.
He said Pakistan has consistently emphasised diplomacy in resolving issues with India and has always preferred diplomatic engagement over conflict. He further stated that Pakistan would pursue all legal avenues regarding the Indus Waters Treaty.
According to the spokesperson, the Indus Water Commissioner and all relevant institutions are actively focused on matters related to the treaty.
Tahir Andrabi also said that the people living along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border desire peace, but terrorism originating from Afghanistan continues to undermine peace efforts.
He added that there are no major issues between the people of the two countries, but the Kabul administration has failed to stop militant activities from Afghan territory. He further said that Pakistan remains in contact with Somalia regarding the extradition of Pakistanis allegedly detained by pirates.
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