Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced on Thursday that Pakistan has made a significant policy change by deciding to strictly enforce international laws at its borders with Afghanistan in order to limit the flow of illicit commodities and militants into the nation.
The government aims to prevent terrorist infiltration, prevent any breaches, and enforce security inspections at borders in addition to reducing the financial losses brought on by the smuggling of oil, fertilizers, and other items from Afghanistan into Pakistan.
Asif hinted at the end of the long-standing practice of Afghans entering Pakistan without the necessary papers when he said, “All traffic from Afghanistan will only be allowed entry into Pakistan with a valid passport and visa,” speaking to News.
The announcement is made at a time when Pakistan has seen a notable increase in cross-border attacks on security forces in recent months, with the militants utilizing cutting-edge gear and weapons.
Islamabad has repeatedly urged the temporary Afghan government to stop the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other extremist groups from using its territory to launch operations against Pakistan.
During the conversation today, the defense minister stated, “We have to secure our country, and these crossing points have been compromising our security.”
He added that there has been an increase in terrorism following the US soldiers’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, with the majority of these acts occurring on Afghan territory. “Currently, all terrorism is emanating from Afghan territory.”