Pakistan–Afghanistan War Not Beneficial for Anyone: Bangladesh Calls for Mediation

Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman has said that the ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan is not beneficial for anyone. He noted that Bangladesh has tried to convey this message to both countries.

He made the remarks on Friday night (27 February) while speaking to journalists at the airport after attending the meeting of foreign ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah.

The foreign minister described the situation between Pakistan and Afghanistan as unfortunate. He said intermittent clashes had been taking place along the border for several days. In this context, Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Afghanistan’s capital Kabul and several other cities.

Earlier on Friday, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Islamabad’s patience with the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan had run out and indicated that Pakistan was effectively moving toward a state of war.

Regarding the OIC meeting, Dr. Rahman said he held discussions with representatives of various countries on the sidelines. Bangladesh sought support for its candidate for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He said OIC member states assured not only their support but also pledged to campaign on behalf of Bangladesh. Bangladesh will compete with Cyprus for the position.

At the meeting, Bangladesh also strongly condemned Israel’s recent land-related law, stating that the move clearly violates international law.

The Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Humayun Kabir, was also present at the airport.