(Web Desk) – Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has stated that the issue of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is set to be discussed during his upcoming visit to Afghanistan, a private media outlet has reported.
The JUI-F chief was interacting with a group of reporters at his Islamabad residence on Saturday.
Fazlur Rehman was extended an invitation by the interim Afghan government last month, marking his first visit to Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed control in 2021.
His previous visit to Afghanistan took place in 2013, when he met with Hamid Karzai, the then-president.
Fazl confirmed receiving an invitation with the approval of the Taliban supreme leader, and he expressed his intention to meet with Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada, the rarely accessible supreme leader of the Taliban, during his trip to Kandahar.
Responding to inquiries about addressing the TTP issue with the Afghan authorities, Fazl acknowledged the possibility, emphasising the use of his diplomatic ties for positive outcomes.
Regarding his representation of the government, the JUI-F chief clarified that although his party organised the visit, he had been in contact with the Foreign Office and relevant government officials. He asserted that the visit would consider the interests of both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
According to Fazl, the Foreign Office provided him a briefing on Jan 3, highlighting Pakistan's stance and demands. He underscored the importance attached to his visit by officials and stated his intention to communicate Pakistan's position to the Taliban leaders.
Asked about potential messages from the government to the Taliban rulers, Fazl underscored leveraging his connections with the Taliban leaders for the mutual benefit of both countries.
Regarding the potential impact of his visit on tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban government, the JUI-F chief suggested that resolution depended on the intentions of the two nations. He however highlighted signals indicating Pakistan's desire for positive outcomes.
Responding to queries about addressing girls' education with the Taliban leaders, Fazl noted that Islamic law did not pose an issue for girls' education. However, he acknowledged that each country had the right to adopt policies concerning internal affairs, peace, security, trade, economy and social reforms.
Fazl contextualised the visit amid heightened tensions between the two countries, stemming from increased terrorist attacks, primarily claimed by the TTP.
While Islamabad has accused the TTP of using Afghan soil against Pakistan, the Afghan Taliban have denied the allegations, stating their commitment to preventing any such use of Afghan territory against their neighbour. Pakistani authorities have called for action against the TTP and the surrender of its leaders.