ISLAMABAD – A ** Multi-Country ** forum has urged strong action against terrorism originating from Afghan soil. The call was made during a high-level regional meeting held in Tehran. Representatives from neighboring countries discussed shared security concerns.
The meeting included special envoys from Pakistan, China, Russia, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. The forum focused on Afghanistan’s security situation and regional stability. Although invited, the Afghan Taliban did not attend the meeting.
Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, raised serious concerns. He said militant groups operating from Afghan territory pose a threat to the entire region. He stressed that terrorism remains the biggest challenge facing neighboring countries.
Sadiq said Afghanistan’s stability depends on eliminating all terrorist groups. He added that trust among regional states cannot grow without firm action. He urged Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to act without discrimination.
The ** Multi-Country ** gathering highlighted that terrorism affects regional peace and economic growth. Participants agreed that Afghanistan’s future depends on security and cooperation. They stressed that militant safe havens must be removed.
Later, Sadiq said the Afghan people deserve peace and stability. He stated that only a terror-free Afghanistan can unlock regional trade opportunities. He also emphasized easing humanitarian suffering.
The forum was first launched by Pakistan in September 2021. It aimed to build a collective regional approach after the Taliban takeover. However, progress has remained limited so far.
Iran also shared its perspective during the meeting. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed regional cooperation over foreign intervention. He said imposed solutions have failed in the past.
Araghchi said Afghanistan should be integrated into regional political and economic systems. He highlighted Afghanistan’s strategic location linking Central, West, and South Asia. He said this gives the country strong potential for trade and energy transit.
The ** Multi-Country ** forum agreed that neighbors are key stakeholders in Afghanistan’s future. Participants stressed shared responsibility for peace and development. They warned against focusing only on security while ignoring social realities.
On the sidelines, Sadiq met Iranian officials to discuss bilateral ties. Both sides expressed hope for regional stability and stronger cooperation.
Iran confirmed the Taliban were formally invited but chose not to attend. Officials said their participation could have improved dialogue. Pakistan’s former diplomats criticized the Taliban’s absence.
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Experts say the meeting sends a clear message. Regional states want action against terrorism. They also seek cooperation to ensure long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan.
