‘No One Can Dictate Kabul’: Afghan Minister Rejects Pakistan’s Claims, Affirms Neutral Policy Towards India

<p>Afghanistan&rsquo;s Defence Minister, Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, has dismissed Pakistan&rsquo;s allegations that India is responsible for rising tensions between the two countries. Criticising Pakistan, Yaqoob Mujahid called Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif&rsquo;s statement baseless and reaffirmed that Afghanistan will never allow its territory to be used against any nation.</p>
<p>Yaqoob Mujahid stated, &ldquo;Afghanistan is an independent nation that seeks positive relations with both Pakistan and India. No one can dictate terms to Kabul. Pakistan&rsquo;s accusations are unfounded and absurd. Our goal is to expand and improve relations, not to create tension.&rdquo;</p>
<h2>Kabul Aims for Good Relations</h2>
<p>He added, &ldquo;We aim to maintain respectful relations with India while also nurturing good ties with Pakistan. Our relations with India are not against Pakistan, nor are our relations with Pakistan at India&rsquo;s expense.&rdquo; Regarding a recent meeting in Doha, he noted, &ldquo;The issue of the Durand Line was not discussed by any party. No country has the right to violate Afghanistan&rsquo;s sovereignty or compromise its security.&rdquo;</p>
<h2>Warning to Pakistan</h2>
<p>Yaqoob Mujahid announced that the next meeting on the Doha Agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan will be held in Turkey, focusing on the implementation of its provisions. He warned, &ldquo;Afghanistan is committed to fulfilling all terms of the agreement. If Pakistan shirks its responsibilities, problems will arise. Pakistan has previously affirmed its commitments in the presence of both countries.&rdquo;</p>
<p>He further accused Pakistan of violating Afghan airspace, stating that Afghanistan has decisively responded to any military attacks. Claiming public support for Taliban actions, he said, &ldquo;If any country attacks us, our people will bravely defend the nation.&rdquo;</p>