Pakistan Warns Advanced Weapons in Afghanistan Pose Serious Regional Security Threat
Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations has warned that the presence of advanced weapons and ammunition stockpiles in Afghanistan constitutes a serious threat to regional and global security. He urged the international community to take practical and coordinated measures to prevent terrorist groups from accessing these arms.
On Monday, Syed Atif Raza spoke at the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States Parties to the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, stating that the stockpiles of advanced weapons in Afghanistan have deeply concerned Islamabad. He noted that this concern is not limited to Pakistan alone and has been reflected in reports by the UN Secretary-General.
The Pakistani diplomat emphasized that the illicit transfer and uncontrolled use of small arms and light weapons could exacerbate and prolong conflicts, weaken security, and hinder countries’ economic and social development.
Following recent political developments in Afghanistan, numerous reports have surfaced regarding the retention of advanced military equipment and weapons in the country. Over time, the Taliban administration has yet to provide clear explanations on how it manages, controls, and prevents unauthorized armed groups from accessing these weapons—a matter that continues to worry regional countries and international organizations.
