DUBAI, FEB 25 (DNA) – The Pakistan Army’s spokesperson said that Afghan forces lack the capacity to defeat militants in the war-torn country.

Speaking when questioned about Islamabad’s continuing disputes with Kabul, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor said that the Pakistan Army has been successful in clearing the country’s side of the border which was once under terrorist influences.

The Afghan side, however, still has areas controlled by militants “due to the lack of capacity of the Afghan forces, and now with the reduced footprint of the international forces”.

“So the issue now resides inside Afghanistan, where the threat is still unchecked,” he also said.

The military spokesperson also hailed Pakistan’s relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, saying it is “extremely important” for the region.

“This cooperation is increasing with every passing day, and we believe this cooperation is in the interest of not only Pakistan, but also the region,” he said.

Saying that Pakistan has a history of “wonderful relationships” with the two Gulf States, Maj Gen Ghafoor said that the Abu Dhabi and Riyadh have played an integral role in assisting Islamabad in its fight against terrorism.

He also lauded the Arab nations for their “phenomenal assistance” in development work in areas where Pakistani forces cleared out terrorists, specifically in social welfare sector including hospitals and water supply schemes.