Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, told the UN Security Council that Pakistan remains vigilant against what he described as India’s efforts to undermine the country’s security and stability.
Speaking during a Right of Reply session at the Security Council, Ambassador Asim said Pakistan would not allow any attempt to support militant groups or threaten its national interests. He asserted that Islamabad had successfully countered such challenges in the past and would continue to do so whenever necessary.
“Pakistan is fully aware of India’s motives and designs,” he said, adding that the country would take all necessary steps to safeguard its security against any external threats.
The ambassador accused India of pursuing policies aimed at destabilising Pakistan through militant organisations operating from Afghan territory. He maintained that Pakistan had consistently worked to counter such activities and remained committed to protecting its sovereignty.
Highlighting Pakistan’s engagement with Afghanistan, Ambassador Asim said Islamabad had supported the Afghan people through humanitarian assistance, diplomatic engagement, trade facilitation and transit concessions. He noted that Pakistan had hoped the Taliban administration would evolve into a responsible governing authority capable of leading Afghanistan toward stability and economic development.
However, he expressed concern that terrorism continues to pose a significant challenge in Afghanistan. According to the envoy, several militant groups—including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Balochistan Liberation Army, Majeed Brigade, Islamic State Khorasan Province and East Turkestan Islamic Movement—continue to operate from Afghan soil.
He said Pakistan had expected the Taliban authorities to take decisive action against these groups but had been disappointed by what he described as a failure to address the security concerns raised by Pakistan and other countries in the region.
During his remarks, Ambassador Asim stressed that terrorism originating from Afghanistan continues to have serious consequences for Pakistan. He noted that hundreds of Pakistani civilians and security personnel, including women and children, have lost their lives in attacks linked to militant groups based across the border.
The envoy further stated that more than 1,200 Pakistanis were killed in terrorist incidents last year, underscoring the scale of the security challenge facing the country. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to taking all necessary measures to protect its citizens and defend its national security.