Afghanistan’s authorities must take decisive action against terrorist safe havens operating from their territory, according to Gilles Bertrand, who reiterated that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan remains a terrorist organization posing a threat to regional peace and security.
Speaking in a televised interview,Gilles Bertrand said the presence of safe havens, training camps, weapons supplies, financial support mechanisms, and cross-border facilitation networks continues to contribute to instability and violence in the region. He emphasized that Afghan territory should not be used by terrorist groups to threaten neighboring countries.
The EU envoy’s remarks reinforce the growing international recognition of TTP as a terrorist threat responsible for undermining peace and security in the region. He highlighted concerns over the continued existence of sanctuaries and support structures that enable militant groups to operate across borders.
Gilles Bertrand stressed that addressing terrorist safe havens remains essential for regional stability. He noted that training facilities, weapons flows, financial assistance, and logistical support networks must be dismantled to prevent terrorist organizations from sustaining their activities and carrying out attacks.
Referring to the broader security situation, the envoy said cross-border terrorism continues to fuel instability affecting Pakistan and the wider region. He underlined the importance of coordinated efforts to deny militant groups the space and resources needed to operate.
The EU Special Envoy also acknowledged that states possess the legitimate right to self-defense against clear and imminent terrorist threats. He said counterterrorism responses are rooted in the internationally recognized principle of self-defense and that countries facing security threats have the right to protect their citizens and national security.
At the same time, Gilles Bertrand emphasized that civilian protection must remain a priority during counterterrorism operations. He stressed the importance of avoiding civilian casualties and ensuring that efforts against terrorism are conducted responsibly and in accordance with international norms.
The envoy further underlined that responsibility for addressing TTP activities and preventing Afghan territory from being used against neighboring countries rests with the authorities currently exercising control in Afghanistan. He called for concrete measures to eliminate terrorist sanctuaries and prevent extremist groups from exploiting cross-border spaces.
Gilles Bertrand’s comments also reflect increasing international concern over the continued activities of TTP and the threat posed by terrorist organizations operating in the region. He stressed that collective efforts are required to dismantle safe havens, disrupt logistical and financial support mechanisms, and strengthen regional cooperation against terrorism.
The remarks come amid ongoing regional and international discussions on counterterrorism and security cooperation, with growing emphasis on preventing terrorist groups from using territory, resources, and support networks to sustain violence and destabilize neighboring states.
