Khyber Pakhtunkhwa official urges talks with Afghanistan on terrorism

An adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister is urging the Pakistani federal government to engage more actively with Afghanistan regarding terrorism. Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif spoke on a television program and criticized the government's lack of dialogue with Afghan authorities. He pointed out that Pakistan's security issues are closely connected to Afghanistan. Saif questioned the government's reluctance to talk with Kabul, especially since officials acknowledge that terrorist networks are operating from Afghanistan. He asked, "What is stopping them from bringing Afghanistan to the table?" He believes that negotiations could help reduce the current wave of violence. He reminded viewers that after the U.S. left Afghanistan in 2021, it was agreed that the Afghan Taliban would address Pakistan’s security concerns. Saif noted that discussions had continued until 2022 but halted when relations with Kabul worsened. He blamed the government for not making the necessary diplomatic efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts. The adviser emphasized the urgent need for the federal government to act in managing borders and foreign policies. He pointed out the sacrifices made by young soldiers and rejected criticism from a political rival. Saif called for open negotiations to tackle terrorism effectively.