China, Pakistan Raise Alarm Over Militant Activity In Afghanistan

China and Pakistan voiced strong concern at the United Nations Security Council over the presence and activities of militant groups in Afghanistan, urging the Taliban to take action.

Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s representative, said militants had gained a “new lease of life” under Taliban rule and were operating freely from Afghan territory. He said the groups were responsible for deadly attacks in Pakistan and stressed that his country remains on the front line of the fight against terrorism, having suffered more than 90,000 casualties and heavy economic losses.

Referring to recent attacks in Balochistan, Ahmad said 48 civilians, including five women and three children, were killed, adding that Pakistani security forces had killed 145 militants linked to Baloch separatist groups.

He said Pakistan is determined to eradicate the groups and expose their supporters and accomplices.

China’s representative, echoing concerns raised by other major Security Council members, highlighted the presence and activities of groups such as al-Qaida, Islamic State and Uyghur militants in Afghanistan, and called on the Taliban to take serious action.

Referring to an Islamic State attack on a Chinese restaurant in Kabul’s Shahr-e-Naw district, the Chinese envoy said militant activity on Afghan soil must be treated seriously.

The Taliban have consistently rejected reports about the presence and activities of militant groups in Afghanistan. Taliban officials say Afghan territory has not been used under their rule to threaten neighbouring or regional countries.

With the exception of India, however, neighbouring and regional states have expressed concern about militant activity in Afghanistan.