KABUL: Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi, held a phone conversation with Rosemary DiCarlo, the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, regarding recent airstrikes carried out by the Pakistani military on Nangarhar and Paktika provinces.
Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Information and Public Relations Department, in a statement said on Tuesday, during the call, Muttaqi expressed deep concern over the recent Pakistani airstrikes that targeted civilians, noting that over the past four years, similar operations have consistently resulted in civilian casualties. He emphasized that no armed fighters were killed in the attacks, as claimed by Pakistan, rendering Islamabad’s accusations against Afghanistan baseless.
Muttaqi also asserted that no armed groups are currently present in Afghanistan and invited international observers, including diplomats, to visit the affected areas to verify the situation firsthand.
DiCarlo expressed deep sorrow over the civilian deaths and confirmed that details of the strikes will be shared with UN member states and all relevant stakeholders.
According to the statement, the two officials also discussed ongoing talks in Doha, working groups, and related issues, expressing hope that current progress will continue and pave the way for further developments.
Earlier, Amnesty International had voiced concern over civilian casualties in the Pakistani strikes, urging independent investigations and accountability.
Foreign Minister discusses recent Pakistani strikes on Afghanistan with UN Deputy Secretary-General via phone
