The ambassador underscored Pakistan’s role as a vital source of human assistance to Afghanistan.
In a compelling plea to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Pakistan has called for a thorough investigation into how the banned terrorist organization Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) acquired advanced weapons used in recent attacks. Addressing a UNSC debate on the situation in Afghanistan, Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, emphasized the serious threat posed by TTP and its offshoots through organized cross-border terrorist activities.
Ambassador Akram raised concerns about the TTP’s access to weapons originating from stockpiles left behind by foreign forces, led by the United States. Despite being a listed terrorist organization, the TTP’s possession of these weapons raises questions, prompting Pakistan to demand a comprehensive investigation by the UN or another agency to determine the source and identify ways to retrieve these weapons.
While acknowledging the interim Afghan authorities’ reported success against Da’esh, Ambassador Akram highlighted the presence of various terrorist groups in Afghanistan, some seemingly protected by the Afghan Interim Government. He stressed the urgent need for stability and peace in Afghanistan, emphasizing that Pakistan has suffered significant losses due to cross-border attacks, with hundreds of soldiers and civilians falling victim to such violence.
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Amid improvements in law and order and actions against Da’esh, Ambassador Akram urged the reversal of restrictions on women and girls’ right to education. Recognizing the strategic imperative of peace in Afghanistan for Pakistan, he commended the efforts of the interim authorities in bringing stability to the war-torn country.
