Other means if talks fail: Muttaqi

Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Sunday expressed Kabul's desire to resolve ongoing tensions with Islamabad through peaceful means, but issued a stern warning that Afghanistan is prepared to defend itself if diplomacy fails.

- Agencies

Speaking from New Delhi during his six-day visit to India, Muttaqi - who abruptly cancelled a scheduled trip to Agra - sent a firm message to Pakistan. He stated that Afghanistan remains united in the face of any "external invasion" and would not tolerate violations of its sovereignty.

"The policy of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is to resolve all issues through dialogue and understanding. We seek zero tension with any country.

However, if peace efforts fail, Afghanistan has other means," Muttaqi asserted.