Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has addressed Afghan Taliban Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, stating that during the Soviet–Afghan war, Pakistan stood firmly alongside the Afghan Mujahideen. However, he emphasized that the situation has now changed, and Pakistan is facing bitter consequences despite its past support.
Reference to the Soviet Era
Khawaja Asif noted that during the conflict against the Soviet Union, Pakistan provided refuge to millions of Afghan migrants, including members of the Haqqani family. He stated that Pakistan hosted them for decades and extended full cooperation and support. According to him, at that time Pakistan and the Afghan leadership shared aligned objectives shaped by global geopolitical strategies.
Context of Recent Remarks
His statement comes after Sirajuddin Haqqani reportedly said that while Afghan objectives differed in the past, today Afghans are united and prepared to confront Pakistan. Khawaja Asif’s response underscores rising tensions between Islamabad and the Afghan Taliban leadership, reflecting a significant shift in regional dynamics and bilateral relations.
