PoK Friction: India ,Taliban Signal New Era, Snub Pakistan

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in a join statement Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi warned Pakistan over its illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.
Jaishankar’s reference to Afghanistan as a “contiguous neighbour” serves as a pointed reminder to Pakistan, particularly in the context of the strategically significant Wakhan Corridor, which connects Afghanistan to the part of Kashmir under Pakistani control. In his remarks, Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to Afghanistan’s development and progress, announcing the restoration of full diplomatic ties, including the elevation of India’s mission in Kabul to an embassy. He also highlighted the shared challenge of cross-border terrorism faced by both nations, a statement underscored by recent military actions by Pakistan in Afghanistan targeting alleged Afghan-backed terrorists. Muttaqi reaffirmed Afghanistan’s stance against allowing its territory to be used for anti-India activities and expressed gratitude for India’s support during critical times, such as the recent earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations based on mutual respect and cooperation. India has consistently condemned Pakistan’s occupation of Kashmir and its support for terrorism, citing recent attacks such as the Pahalgam incident that resulted in significant casualties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration has made it clear that any discussions with Pakistan will focus solely on the issues of terrorism and the restoration of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, reiterating that “terror and talks cannot happen together.”