Press release issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Afghanistan

There have been repeated statements from the Afghan side blaming Pakistan for the conflict in Afghanistan. It is alleged that infiltration by remnants of Taliban is taking place from Pakistan. The fact is that the conflict situation has continued in Afghanistan for many years. The killing of scores of people in skirmishes in different parts of Afghanistan in the recent days points to the continuation of this situation. That Taliban are operating inside Afghanistan is evident from their involvement in these skirmishes and also from their statements made in Afghanistan.

The Afghan Government's failure to deal with the situation cannot be placed at Pakistan's door. Pakistan has itself been a victim of the conflict in Afghanistan for over a quarter of a century. We have looked after more than 4 million Afghan refugees. We are still host to close to 3 million Afghan refugees. We have repeatedly said that we would like to see these refugees return to Afghanistan. It is the responsibility of the Afghan Government to create conditions so that the refugees can return to Afghanistan.

The unfortunate situation in Afghanistan has compounded over the years. Apart from Taliban, the war-lords continue to wield influence. The problems of drugs and gun-running remain acute causing problems for neighbors. Responsible observers who have been involved in the Afghan situation believe that the ongoing conflict is due to the weakness of Afghan institutions and not because of Pakistan. These accusations only show frustration at not being able to address the internal security situation.

Pakistan is also suffering the consequences of infiltration by terrorist elements from Afghan side. Elements hostile to Pakistan are using Afghan territory with impunity to carry out terrorist acts on our territory. For interdicting such undesirable acts including the supply of weapons, Pakistan has consistently made suggestions. These include: increased coordination within the framework of the Trilateral Commission; prompt intelligence sharing; fencing of the international border; and serious endeavours for the return of all refugees.

We also recently proposed regular meetings at the Foreign Ministers level.

On its part, Pakistan has deployed more than 80,000 troops on its western border, conducted over 75 operations and established 800 border posts. We have done more than any other country to fight terrorism. More of our soldiers have sacrificed their lives than both the Afghan and ISAF troops combined. The situation poses a difficult challenge but we are dealing with it in the best possible manner. We expect the same degree of commitment from the other side.

The present situation in Afghanistan can only be addressed through a political process. This was the purpose of the Bonn Agreement which Pakistan fully supported and facilitated its implementation. We facilitated the participation of Afghan refugees in the Presidential elections. Pakistan's positive and important role in fulfillment of the Bonn process was acknowledged by Afghan leaders including President Karzai as well as by the international community.

Pakistan desires a stable Afghanistan, which is of vital importance to Pakistan. Blaming Pakistan for the internal unrest in Afghanistan will help no one. Afghan Government has to address this situation politically. The international community has to help reconstruction to strengthen the political process. There is need to step up national reconciliation and encourage all segments of the Afghan society to participate in the political process and create political harmony. We want the Afghan Government to succeed, as that would expedite the return of refugees who remain an enormous burden on our society.

Islamabad

May 22, 2006