During his official visit to India, Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, delivered a strong message to Pakistan amid ongoing border tensions between the two neighboring countries. Addressing the media in New Delhi, Muttaqi stated that while Afghanistan is committed to regional peace and friendly relations, it is fully prepared to defend itself if provoked.

"We want peaceful and cooperative relations with our neighbors, including Pakistan," Muttaqi said. "But no one should doubt Afghanistan’s ability to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The remarks came shortly after recent clashes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, which reportedly escalated following an alleged Pakistani airstrike. Both nations have suffered casualties in the violence, raising concerns over regional stability.

Muttaqi’s statement is being viewed as a strategic signal to Pakistan, especially as it comes during high-level diplomatic engagements in India. It underscores the Taliban-led government's evolving foreign policy approach — one that appears to be more assertive and independent.

With regional players like India closely observing the situation, Afghanistan's message is clear: it will no longer remain passive in matters concerning its national security.