Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has called on Afghan Taliban leader Sirajuddin Haqqani, recalling Pakistan’s past hospitality and support during the anti-Soviet war. Asif urged Afghan authorities to prevent their territory from being used for attacks against Pakistan. In a statement on social media, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s strong support for Afghan fighters during the Soviet occupation and noted that Pakistan had hosted Haqqani, his family, and millions of Afghan refugees, many of whom continue to reside and work in Pakistan. He reminded Haqqani that both nations fought a common enemy, with the United States shaping the objectives at the time. Asif also touched upon the period after the 9/11 attacks, when Pakistan facilitated NATO logistics but later faced accusations of supporting the Haqqani network. He questioned whether these accusations were true, asking if the Afghan leadership remembered Pakistan being questioned about their whereabouts. The minister stated that while the US reduced its engagement, Pakistan worked to reconcile Afghan factions, even facilitating meetings between rival groups. Asif expressed dismay that despite decades of goodwill, Pakistan now faces violence from groups allegedly operating from Afghan soil, questioning why those who kill Pakistani citizens are being sheltered and treated as allies. He revealed that during a visit to Kabul, he had requested Afghan leaders not to associate with groups hostile to Pakistan, even offering financial assistance without guarantees. Asif emphasized that the Haqqani lineage is historically respected and should uphold traditions of goodwill towards their hosts. He stated that Pakistan seeks nothing more than peace and the right to live undisturbed, warning against allowing militants to use Afghan territory against Pakistan. He concluded by stating that while they may host whomever they wish, they should not act as an enemy by permitting their land to be used for attacks against Pakistan, invoking principles of good neighborliness and faith.