From John Nelson
KABUL: The Tehrik-e-Taliban Afghanistan spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said Afghanistan want to join the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Pakistan’s concerns will be allayed.
This was stated by Mujahid at a press conference on Monday shortly after the group announced it had captured Panjshir Valley, the bastion of the anti-Taliban forces. Mujahid said Afghanistan was keen on becoming part of the CPEC to partake in economic activities with the global community.
The spokesperson said that the new government in the war-torn country would address concern of Pakistan. “Pakistan’s concerns as a neighbour are valid,” Mujahid added. “Afghanistan’s land will not be used against any country, including Pakistan,” he continued.
The spokesman also vowed to complete the four-nation CASA power project between Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Pakistan. Mujahid said that the Afghan troops would be asked to resume their duties.
“The Islamic Emirate is very sensitive about insurgencies. Anyone who tries to start an insurgency will be hit hard. We will not allow another insurgency in the country,” Mujahid announced.
“Anyone who picks up arms and start resistance, without any doubts, will be our enemy. “The war has ended; the country is getting out of the crisis. It is now time for peace and reconstruction. We need the people to support us.”
Three weeks after seizing power but with no government so far announced, the spokesman said an “interim” system would first be announced to allow changes. Following Mujahid’s press conference, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid on Monday hailed the Taliban’s desire to have Afghanistan incorporated in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as “encouraging”, saying “it is good” if the Taliban’s views about China were similar to that of Pakistan.
