KABUL: According to media reports, Pakistan's Ambassador to Afghanistan, Mansoor Ahmad Khan, has stated that the presence of international terror organisations such as the Islamic State (IS) and Al Qaeda in the war-torn country constitutes a threat to Islamabad and the entire region.

Khan remarked in a media briefing: "Terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan have posed a threat to Afghan security as well as the security of neighbouring nations, including Pakistan. IS is present, and remnants of Al Qaeda may also be there. Other elements include the TTP, Baluch insurgents, and many other groups." The ambassador added that the "barrier was created or installed in the preceding years when cross-border terrorism was at its height" along the disputed Durand Line, the de-facto border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

He went on to say that "erecting a barrier was one of the ways the Pakistani state, Pakistani government, thought of dealing with this issue." Pakistan has been working to develop trade, social, economic, and political connections with Kabul, according to the Ambassador. The envoy's comments come as tensions between the two countries over the Durand Line are rising.

While Pakistan has emphasised the importance of finishing the Durand Line fencing, the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan has stated that no more fencing will be allowed along the line.

The Taliban have not responded to Khan's comments, but the leadership has consistently denied the presence of foreign terror groups in Afghanistan and promised that Afghan land will not be used against anyone.

Indians and Pakistanis argue over Pakistani rock salt!

Israel Navy takes part in military exercise with Pakistan

Putin, Macron discuss over Ukraine, emphasis need for diplomatic solution