China and the United Nations have issued fresh warnings to Pakistan over the growing spillover of terrorist threats originating from Afghanistan, underlining concerns about cross-border militancy and its impact on regional stability.
Speaking at a high-level briefing of the Counter-Terrorism Early Warning Network for Central Asia, China’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Sun Lei, said that while Central Asia remains largely stable, it continues to face pressure from terrorism crossing borders. He stressed that militant threats spilling out of Afghanistan remain a serious concern for the region.
The Chinese envoy called on Pakistan to enhance cooperation with Afghanistan to address the problem. He said sustained engagement is necessary to ensure Afghan territory does not again become a safe haven for terrorist organisations and to prevent the return and movement of foreign fighters.
A day earlier, UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed similar concerns while addressing the situation in Afghanistan. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to peace and stability in the country but expressed disappointment over the Taliban’s lack of progress on inclusivity, human rights and regional security.
Guterres emphasised that inclusive governance, with representation of all ethnic groups and sectors of society, is essential for lasting peace. He also criticised continued restrictions on women, noting that while limited guarantees were secured for female UN staff to work in the field, broader freedoms remain curtailed—something he described as unacceptable.
On the security front, the UN chief warned against militant groups operating from Afghan soil and threatening neighbouring countries. He highlighted particular concern over the activities of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the alleged support networks enabling its operations.
Within Pakistan, differing views have surfaced. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said accusations that Afghan territory is being used against Pakistan are serious and must be backed by credible evidence from the federal government. He noted that Afghanistan shares borders with several countries, yet similar complaints have not been raised by others.
Afridi also criticised Pakistan’s handling of Afghan migrant expulsions, saying many Afghans who entered the country legally and contribute to the economy are being treated unfairly. He described the policy as inconsistent and discriminatory, calling for a uniform and humane approach.
Political analysts have warned that repeated accusations against Kabul have strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. Analysts such as Dawood Shiraz argued that dialogue, rather than blame, is needed to reduce tensions, while others dismissed claims of Afghan involvement as politically motivated.
Officials of Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate have consistently rejected Pakistan’s allegations, maintaining that Afghan soil will not be allowed to be used against any country and reaffirming their commitment to regional security.
