PM Shehbaz Urges Kabul to Rein in TTP, Calls It Key to Regional Peace

ISLAMABAD; Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday urged the Afghan government to take decisive action against militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operating from Afghan soil, calling it essential for achieving lasting peace in the region.

Addressing the opening session of the Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad, the premier said that a stable and peaceful Afghanistan is vital for regional connectivity, growth, and prosperity.

“Afghanistan must understand that durable peace can only be achieved by controlling the TTP and other terrorist groups using Afghan territory,” he stated.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had faced both internal and external challenges but remained determined to uphold peace and stability. Recalling the conflict with India earlier this year, which he described as an “unprovoked aggression on the eastern front in May,” the prime minister praised Pakistan’s “highly professional armed forces” for their swift and effective response.

“Our forces’ prompt land and air operations foiled the enemy’s designs and displayed our firm resolve to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said, adding, “Having won the war, we now need to win the peace through sincerity and continued efforts.”

The prime minister warned that militant groups still threaten peace within Afghanistan and across the region. Referring to last month’s cross-border attacks on Pakistani posts from the Afghan side, he said Pakistan’s response was “firm and decisive” to send an “unforgettable message” to the perpetrators.

He also appreciated Qatar and Turkiye for their facilitation in Pakistan’s talks with the Afghan Taliban authorities, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace through constructive engagement.

His comments came as talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain stalled. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently confirmed that the fourth round of bilateral dialogue had been suspended following inconclusive talks in Istanbul.

Asif thanked Qatar and Turkiye for their mediation, noting that despite their sincere efforts, discussions reached an impasse after both sides failed to overcome differences following deadly border clashes last month.