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Pakistan boosts security along Pak-Afghan border
FO calls presidential elections a milestone in Afghan democratic journey
OnlineISLAMABAD - Additional troops have been deployed on the Pak-Afghan border to reinforce existing security arrangements for conduct of peaceful presidential elections in Afghanistan, a spokesman for the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
A number of measures have been taken for the purpose after due deliberation and coordination with the Afghan security forces. While ensuring that a smooth flow of voters move, checking by immigration staff at crossing points has been enhanced and patrolling has been increased in areas close to the border.
Strict checking measures are being employed on routes from mainland leading towards border areas, the spokesman said. Communication at Border Coordination Centres on both the sides has also been enhanced and a hotline contact has been established between the two Military Operations directorates. Additionally, aerial surveillance is also being carried out to check any untoward cross border movement.
Moreover, the Foreign Office has called the second phase of the Afghan presidential elections a milestone in what it called the country’s democratic journey. "We reiterate that these elections are an Afghan affair, with the Afghan electoral institutions in the lead. They bear a heavy responsibility, and we wish them well in accomplishing their task successfully,” FO spokeswoman Tasnim Aslam told a private TV channel.
“We also hope that the voters would once again demonstrate their firm resolve and exercise their right to determine their future through democratic means, in an optimal way,” she said. Aslam said that for its part Pakistan remains committed to supporting all efforts for a free and peaceful electoral process in Afghanistan.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk