Pakistan has voiced serious concerns over terrorism originating from Afghanistan during a meeting of special representatives of Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries and Russia, held in Tehran, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.
According to Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Mudassar Tipu, Islamabad stressed that its security concerns related to terrorism must be addressed with urgency and seriousness.
He said Pakistan reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, development and stability across the region, while urging all stakeholders to share responsibility for ensuring lasting security.
The meeting was opened by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who delivered a keynote address outlining regional challenges and the need for coordinated approaches.
Pakistan was represented by Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq, while Ambassador to Kabul Obaid Nizamani also participated in the discussions.
Separately, Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, held a goodwill meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on the sidelines of the regional talks.
Ambassador Tipu said the discussion highlighted the growing engagement between the leadership of Pakistan and Iran.
During the meeting, the Iranian foreign minister reaffirmed his country’s commitment to further strengthening and expanding bilateral relations with Pakistan.
Mohammad Sadiq, in turn, thanked Iran for hosting the meeting of Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries and Russia, describing the initiative as timely and constructive.
Sadiq expressed optimism that the Tehran meeting would help promote peace, stability and economic development across the region, particularly amid ongoing concerns over security and extremism linked to Afghanistan.
The engagements underscored Islamabad’s dual focus on addressing immediate security threats while deepening diplomatic and regional cooperation to support long-term stability.
The regional deliberations coincided with fresh warnings from senior US intelligence officials about alleged links between some Afghan nationals living in the United States and terrorist organisations.
Senior US intelligence officials have raised concerns about alleged links between some Afghan nationals residing in the United States and terrorist organisations, warning of potential risks to national and global security, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday.
The Director of US National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, said that at least 2,000 Afghan nationals are either suspected militants or have links to extremist groups.
She said intelligence agencies remain aware that terrorist organisations continue to plan attacks against the United States.
Separate disclosures by the Director of the National Counterterrorism Centre added to the concerns.
The official said that nearly 18,000 Afghan nationals who entered the US during the Biden administration were flagged by counterterrorism authorities as either known or suspected extremists with alleged ties to militant organisations.
According to Fox News, the National Counterterrorism Center’s director described Afghan refugees as one of the most significant security challenges facing the United States, highlighting concerns over screening and monitoring processes.
The claims have renewed debate over immigration policies, refugee vetting and national security safeguards. Reports noted that several countries have already imposed restrictions on Afghan nationals amid fears of potential terrorist activity.
Analysts say ongoing instability in Afghanistan, including the presence of militant safe havens and training centres, continues to pose a serious challenge to international peace and security, placing added pressure on governments hosting Afghan migrants.
Reporter: Anwar Abbas