Afghanistan calls on Pakistan to 'de-escalate' tensions at border

Calling on Islamabad to de-escalate tensions, Afghanistan has called on Pakistan to re-open the border, which had been closed in the wake of the recent spree of terrorist attacks.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador to Afghanistan Abrar Hussain and Afghan Deputy Commander-in-Chief General Murad Ali Murad met on February 27.

Quoting the statement, Dawn reports that General Murad had "requested [Islamabad] for de-escalation at the border and re-opening of the crossing points between the two countries".

Gen Murad had also highlighted the challenges "due to closure of the border and cross-border shelling from Pakistan", and sought the country's help to reduce tensions between the two states.

"He also promised to take action against terrorists on the basis of shared information," the statement added.

In his response, Ambassador Hussain briefed General Murad about the circumstances motivating Pakistan's actions, highlighting that "Afghan nationals were involved in recent attacks in the country".

He further asserted that Afghanistan should take appropriate measures to deny "use of its soil by terrorists against Pakistan", adding that the border was closed to prevent the movement of terrorists from across the border.