ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador (Retired) Muhammad Sadiq, emphasized the necessity of a broad-based arrangement and the productive engagement of all Afghan people to achieve durable peace and stability in Afghanistan. Speaking at a seminar in Islamabad, Sadiq highlighted the strategic importance of Afghanistan, noting its position at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and West Asia, and its influence on trade, security, and stability across Europe.

According to Radio Pakistan, Sadiq criticized the current governance in Afghanistan as being narrow in scope and lacking representation, citing the exclusion of women from public life as a significant issue. He expressed concerns about the ongoing presence of militant organizations on Afghan soil, which he described as a direct threat to regional neighbors and stability. Sadiq stated that the regime in Kabul is in denial about the extent of this threat and has failed to address it effectively.

The ambassador highlighted the impact of these issues on Pakistan, noting an increase in cross-border security challenges and the implications for border stability with Central Asian countries. Sadiq called for Afghanistan to be treated as a collective responsibility, urging international bodies such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to take action in addressing Afghanistan’s challenges.