Pakistan refuted claims that it has been “softening” on Taliban operatives within its territory, claiming that it is the world leader in fighting terror, according to news reports.
Western sources criticized Pakistan for harboring terror groups following two deadly explosions in Afghanistan last week. Pakistan has long been accused by the West and Afghanistan of training the Taliban and allowing its members to cross into Afghanistan through its border.
The Pakistani foreign minister claimed yesterday that his country has “borne the brunt” of the war against terror since September 11, 2001 and fights terror groups indiscriminately, according to reports.
Following the attacks in Afghanistan, the Taliban reportedly warned of fresh attacks. The Taliban and Al-Qai’ida both claimed responsibility for the attack in Kabul, which claimed seven lives.
While Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has publicly declared his commitment to fighting terror, vocal Islamic groups and disputes between Shi’ite and Sunni groups have made it a challenge. Pakistan has been the target of several major bombings in recent months in addition to several assassination attempts on Musharraf in the past few years.