Pakistan Calls for Action Against Militants in Afghanistan at ECO Meeting

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar has stated that terrorism originating from Afghanistan is undermining the prospects for peace and development across the region. Speaking at the 27th informal meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) Council of Ministers in New York, Dar called on the Taliban administration to take substantial measures against militant groups operating from Afghan territory.

Dar explained that Pakistan's expectation from the Taliban regime is to address legitimate security concerns. He specifically mentioned the need for verifiable actions against the proscribed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and other groups he said pose a threat to Pakistan's sovereignty and citizens. The statement comes during a period of rising tensions between Islamabad and Kabul following recent assaults by militants based in Afghanistan.

Highlighting Pakistan’s policy, Dar said the country seeks a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan that is integrated within the region. He added that Pakistan has offered trade concessions to Afghanistan and is prioritising the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway project as part of wider initiatives to boost cooperation and regional integration.

Dar also addressed the broader security context, expressing concern about the situation in the Middle East and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution as per international law. He noted Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts, including facilitating dialogue to help resolve tensions between the United States and Iran.

During the meeting, Dar presented Pakistan’s agenda for its upcoming chairmanship of the ECO Council of Ministers for 2026-27, under the theme 'Reviving Regionalism for a Resilient ECO.' Priorities outlined include promoting intra-regional trade, improving transit corridors between Central Asia and the Arabian Sea, developing a digitally enabled ECO Free Trade Area, and enhancing cooperation on climate resilience.

The event, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly session, brought together foreign ministers and senior representatives from ECO member countries. Participants discussed regional and global developments and voiced support for deepening cooperation within the region, looking ahead to the 30th ECO Council of Ministers meeting scheduled in Islamabad for November.