Asif warns of worsening Afghan ties amid surge in terror attacks

SIALKOT: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan are deteriorating, cautioning that the current environment could lead to further strain in bilateral ties, something Pakistan does not wish for.

Speaking to Geo News exclusively, the minister said that relations with Afghanistan had never been ideal, adding that terrorism was being exported from Afghan soil into Pakistan.

“Pakistan wanted relations of respect and dignity, just like good neighbours,” he said, urging Afghanistan to cooperate in addressing cross-border terrorism. During the interview, Asif added that people living in areas where terrorists find refuge were usually aware of their presence. “If someone from outside enters a neighbourhood, I would surely know within three days,” he remarked, adding that silence from locals in such cases amounts to partial consent.

Asif asserted that no harm would be allowed to come to patriotic Pakistanis.

Speaking about India, the defence minister said New Delhi’s recent statements indicated it might attempt another misadventure.