Commitment to Trilateral Dialogue
Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the trilateral mechanism involving Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan, calling it a positive platform for regional engagement. Speaking at the weekly Foreign Office briefing, spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said Islamabad agreed during recent Pakistan-China talks to continue the forum. He stressed that Pakistan does not seek hostility with Afghanistan but expects serious and concrete steps from the Taliban-led administration to address security concerns.
Weekly Press Briefing by the Spokesperson @TahirAndrabi
On DPM/FM-chaired meeting with FS, ex FSs, Envoys and Snr Officials at MOFA on 7th Jan. pic.twitter.com/i96nje0Sxc
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 8, 2026
Demand for Clear Guarantees from Kabul
Pakistan once again raised its long-standing concern over the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan fighters inside Afghanistan. Andrabi said Pakistan expects verifiable and written guarantees that Afghan soil will not be used for terrorism against other countries. He added that such assurances would also benefit Afghanistan by improving regional trust and stability. Islamabad believes that despite its diplomatic support for the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, security conditions along the border have worsened rather than improved.
Growing Strain in Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations
Pakistan’s frustration has increased due to a surge in militant attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of allowing TTP militants to operate freely. In response, the Afghan side has blamed Pakistan for the airstrikes and political pressure, deepening mistrust between the two neighbours.
Clarification on Saudi Defence Reports
Addressing reports about converting $2 billion in Saudi loans into a JF-17 fighter jet deal, Andrabi said the Foreign Office was not aware of any such agreement. He noted that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy strong defence ties and that any confirmed development would be shared officially.
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Tough Stance on India and Regional Issues
The spokesperson rejected recent statements by India’s foreign minister, calling them baseless. He accused India of supporting terrorism while criticising the demolition of a mosque in Delhi, describing it as part of a broader anti-Muslim pattern. Andrabi also voiced Pakistan’s opposition to foreign interference in Iran and rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, reaffirming support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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