Quetta, Nov 2 (NationPress) Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that Pakistan's civilian government is eager to foster relations with Afghanistan based on shared interests; however, local reports indicate that the military is obstructing these efforts.

Mujahid revealed that certain factions within Pakistan's military are actively working to undermine the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, as reported by Afghanistan-based Tolo News, citing Khyber TV. He mentioned, "Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Sadiq Khan, was in Kabul and had positive discussions with Afghan officials, yet during the same timeframe, Pakistan launched attacks on Afghan territory. The civilian government aims to strengthen ties, but the military undermines these efforts."

He highlighted that traders from both nations are suffering losses due to Pakistan's closure of border crossings along the Durand Line, emphasizing the need to keep such issues separate from political agendas. Mujahid pointed out that relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan thrived during Imran Khan's period as Prime Minister.

Zabihullah called on Pakistan to provide information regarding terrorist activities occurring on Afghan soil to the Taliban to facilitate appropriate action.

He stated, "While the Pakistani side expects us to prevent incidents within Pakistan, such matters are beyond our control. The Islamic Emirate does not desire instability in Pakistan and is committed to ensuring that no threats emerge from Afghan territory."

This statement comes in light of rising tensions following cross-border operations conducted by Pakistani forces in Afghanistan and the unsuccessful talks between delegations from both countries in Turkey on Monday.

Mujahid expressed hope that the upcoming talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan, scheduled for November 5, will be characterized by sincere and meaningful discussions aimed at resolving persistent bilateral issues, as reported by Tolo News.

When queried about Pakistan's apprehensions regarding reports of a dam construction on the Kunar River, a Taliban representative reaffirmed that such developments on Afghan land are Afghanistan's prerogative.

He remarked, "If a dam is constructed on the Kunar River, it will not adversely affect Pakistan. The water will continue to flow naturally; it will simply be utilized along the way."

Earlier in October, Afghanistan declared its intention to commence dam projects on the Kunar River "as soon as possible."

In a statement shared on X, the Taliban's Deputy Information Minister Muhajer Farahi conveyed, "His Eminence Amir al-Mu'mineen, referring to Taliban Supreme Leader Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, has directed the Ministry of Water and Energy to initiate dam construction on the Kunar River promptly and to engage local companies, rather than await foreign firms."