Afghan Taliban seek better ties with Pakistan, expect Saudi role

KABUL: Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has said Afghanistan wants to maintain good relations with Pakistan and hopes Saudi Arabia will play an important role in helping resolve differences between the two neighbouring countries.

Speaking to Arab media, Mujahid said Afghanistan remained willing to continue dialogue and cooperation with Pakistan. He welcomed efforts by Saudi Arabia and other countries to help the two sides address their disputes.

Mujahid said Afghanistan valued Saudi Arabia as a friendly country and expected Riyadh to play a constructive role in easing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad.

“We expect Saudi Arabia to play its role as a friend,” Mujahid said, adding that Riyadh could make a positive contribution to resolving the issues between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

He also highlighted the respect and affection for Saudi Arabia among the Afghan people. He said Afghanistan had great regard for the kingdom and the two holy mosques.

Mujahid expressed hope that Saudi authorities would continue their mediation efforts effectively. He said Afghanistan respected Saudi Arabia’s decisions and its efforts to facilitate dialogue between the two countries.

The Taliban spokesperson also reiterated Afghanistan’s willingness to engage with Pakistan through talks and cooperation. He said Kabul welcomed initiatives by countries seeking to help settle outstanding disputes.

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have remained strained over security concerns and allegations regarding militant activity. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Afghan authorities to prevent their territory from being used for attacks against Pakistan.

Pakistan has also called on the Afghan Taliban administration to take action against militant groups operating from Afghan soil, including groups that Islamabad says are being used as proxies against the country.

The Pakistani government has maintained that its primary demand from Afghanistan is that its territory should not be used for hostile activities against Pakistan.