WASHINGTON: National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability in the region, asserting that there was a need to work jointly to avert any security vacuum in Afghanistan.
“Unfortunately, Afghan soil is still being used for subversive activities in Pakistan,” the Adviser said while talking to Pakistani Media in Washington. He said any instability in Afghanistan will lead to rebirth of various terrorist groups there, which can create problems for the region.
“Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan has established sanctuaries in Afghanistan, which is a threat to us. Besides, there may be some groups which can target other countries as well, which is a matter of concern for the United States too,” he pointed out.
Regarding his engagements with US officials, the Security adviser said that Pakistan and the United States have agreed to continue with the Afghan peace process to ensure lasting stability in Afghanistan. “Both Pakistan and the United Sates are unanimous that there should be peace in Afghanistan and we are discussing technicalities to achieve this objective,” he added.
He further said Pakistan has played its due role and would continue to do so for peace in Afghanistan, adding that the United Sates was an important player and would remain relevant for stability in Afghanistan.
Responding to a question, Moeed Yusuf said, “We will react if any country attempts to use Afghan soil to destabilize Pakistan like any sovereign country,” adding, “The use of Afghan soil to undermine Pakistan is not acceptable.”
He also urged all the stakeholders to make their sincere efforts to avert any protracted conflict or civil war in Afghanistan, saying that any decision should be taken in view of the ground realities.
Answering a question, Moeed Yusuf said under the current arrangements, Afghanistan’s exports through Pakistan were continuing without any bar. He said Indian goods bound for Afghanistan are also being allowed through Karachi Port.
He, however, pointed out that transit of goods from India to Afghanistan via land route through Pakistan is not allowed due to security concerns. “Pakistan has the right under the International Law to stop movement of goods through its territory if it feels any threat to its national security as it is a known fact that India does not let any chance go to create instability in Pakistan,” he added.
