On Saturday, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a pointed message to Afghan Taliban leader Sirajuddin Haqqani, reminding him of Pakistan’s extensive hospitality and unwavering support during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Speaking through a detailed post on the social media platform X, Asif emphasized Pakistan’s historical role as a refuge and ally to Afghan fighters and refugees alike, while urging the current Afghan authorities to ensure that their land is not used as a base for attacks against Pakistan.
Asif recounted how Pakistan had stood firmly “heart and soul” with Afghan mujahideen during the brutal Soviet-Afghan conflict that began in 1979. He highlighted that Pakistan had not only provided shelter to Haqqani and his family but also hosted millions of Afghan refugees who fled the war-torn country. Many of these refugees continue to reside in Pakistan, where they contribute to the economy and sustain their livelihoods on Pakistani soil, which Asif described as “sacred.”
The Defence Minister further elaborated on the shared history between the two nations, noting that both Pakistan and Afghanistan had fought a common enemy during the Soviet era, with the United States playing a significant role in shaping the objectives of that conflict. However, the relationship took a complicated turn after the September 11 attacks in 2001. Pakistan supported NATO logistics in the region but soon faced accusations of harboring the Haqqani network, a militant group blamed for attacks inside Pakistan. Asif challenged Afghan leaders to clarify these allegations, asking pointedly, “We were asked about your location. Do you remember?”
Between the Soviet invasion and the post-9/11 period, Asif explained, the United States gradually reduced its direct engagement with both Pakistan and Afghanistan. During this time, Pakistan took on the difficult role of mediator, attempting to bring various Afghan factions together in pursuit of peace. He recalled efforts that included taking rival Afghan groups to Makkah for reconciliation talks, demonstrating Islamabad’s commitment to regional stability.
Despite Pakistan’s decades of generosity and attempts at fostering peace, Asif expressed deep concern over the current situation, where militants allegedly operating from Afghan soil continue to carry out violent attacks inside Pakistan. He questioned why Afghan authorities would provide sanctuary to those responsible for killing innocent Pakistani civilians, including children. The Defence Minister accused Kabul of protecting these militants and treating them as allies, a stance he warned could have serious consequences for bilateral relations.
Asif also shared his personal experiences from visits to Kabul, where he directly appealed to Afghan leaders not to support groups hostile to Pakistan. He mentioned that Pakistan was even willing to offer financial assistance to help curb militancy, but the lack of guarantees from Afghan authorities left Islamabad skeptical. The Defence Minister underscored the historical respect associated with the Haqqani name, urging that this legacy be honored through peaceful coexistence rather than conflict.
In his concluding remarks, Khawaja Asif made a heartfelt plea for mutual respect and peace, stating, “We ask nothing from you. Live peacefully in your own home and let us live peacefully in ours.” He warned against allowing Pakistan’s enemies to find refuge or operate from Afghan territory, emphasizing that while Afghanistan may host these groups, it should not become a base for hostility against Pakistan. He reminded that the shared traditions, culture, and religion between the two nations teach the importance of goodwill toward those who provide sanctuary.
Ending on a patriotic note, Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s resilience and spirit by declaring, “God is great. Pakistan Zindabad.” His message serves as both a reminder of Pakistan’s historical generosity and a firm call for Afghanistan to act responsibly in preventing cross-border militancy that threatens peace and security in the region.
