By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Friday reiterated that any restoration of trade and connectivity with Afghanistan hinges on Kabul ending its support to groups responsible for mounting cross-border terrorism against Pakistan.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi, addressing his weekly press briefing, said the Afghan Taliban regime must prove through actions that it is not facilitating the Fitna Al Khawarij (TTP) and Fitna Al Hind terrorist networks.

“We have suspended trade and closed border crossings to protect our people,” Andarabi told reporters. “The onus of delays in reopening lies squarely with the Afghan Taliban regime. Either we protect our traders and citizens from deadly attacks or we engage in risky trade — that is the difficult choice we have made.”

While responding to a question about major regional economic projects — including TAPI, CASA-1000 and UAP — he stressed that their success is tied directly to Kabul halting terror facilitation. “Connectivity must come with responsibility. Regional prosperity cannot be built on violence.”

Andarabi dismissed suggestions that Pakistan viewed Afghanistan’s growing trade outreach to India with concern. “We judge our relationship with Afghanistan on its own merit, not through a third country lens,” he stated. However, he warned that India’s efforts to exploit Afghanistan-Pakistan tensions are well-known and monitored closely.

“Modi’s assurances lack credibility”

The spokesperson addressed a series of recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his role in preventing another war between Pakistan and India. He said Pakistan acknowledges Washington’s positive diplomatic role in preventing escalation — particularly during the May conflict.

However, when it comes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that India will not wage war on Pakistan, Andarabi was blunt:

“We take such claims with a pinch of salt. New Delhi’s political and military leadership continues to issue provocative statements. Trust is built on actions, not hollow rhetoric.”

He noted that the Modi government has continued its campaign of human rights abuses in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir, demographic engineering, religious persecution and threats against Pakistan — all of which undermine regional peace.

Türkiye’s mediation appreciated

Responding to repeated media questions on mediation efforts by Türkiye, Andarabi confirmed that the visit of senior Turkish officials — announced by President Erdoğan — is still being scheduled.

“We value Türkiye’s sincere efforts. The delay should not be interpreted as non-cooperation by Pakistan,” he said, adding that Pakistan also appreciates the willingness of Iran and Russia to support de-escalation efforts with Afghanistan. Any formal proposals will be considered once specifics are shared, he noted.

No foreign interference in Bangladesh

On Bangladesh’s internal political developments — including reports about former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — Andarabi reiterated Islamabad’s neutral stance.

“This is Bangladesh’s internal matter. Its people are fully capable of resolving domestic political issues,” he maintained.

Pakistan rejects attacks on Palestinian rights

The spokesperson condemned Israel’s continued violations of the Gaza ceasefire and assaults in the occupied West Bank, including incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque. He called for urgent international intervention and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as capital.

Diplomacy in motion

Andarabi highlighted extensive diplomatic engagements by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar in Brussels and Moscow this week — including strategic dialogues with the EU, participation in the Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum, and high-level consultations with NATO, SCO leadership, and several European partners.

“These engagements reflect Pakistan’s commitment to peace, regional connectivity and economic cooperation,” the spokesperson said.

Pakistan, he concluded, remains committed to regional stability — but will not compromise on national security.