Afghanistan bans Pakistani newspapers

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 21 September 2012

Afghanistan has implemented a ban on all Pakistani newspapers to prevent Taliban propaganda. This decision intensifies the ongoing tensions between the two countries.

Summary

KABUL: Afghanistan is banning all Pakistani newspapers from entering the country in an attempt to prevent the Taliban influencing public opinion through the press. Friday’s order by the Ministry of Interior adds to mounting tension between the neighboring countries. The order specifically focuses on blocking entry of the papers at Torkham, a busy border crossing.

It also directed border police to gather Pakistani newspapers in the three eastern provinces of Nangarhar, Kunar and Nuristan.

In a statement, the ministry called the content of the newspapers Taliban propaganda. -- Agencies

KEY POINTS:

• Afghanistan bans Pakistani newspapers to limit Taliban influence.
• The ban targets the Torkham border crossing primarily.
• Border police are instructed to confiscate newspapers in eastern provinces.
• The Ministry of Interior labeled the papers as Taliban propaganda.
• This action adds to the strained relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.