Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Wednesday that Pakistan is ready to fulfil the Afghan Taliban’s wish for war if the group wants conflict.

Speaking on the Samaa TV programme "Nadeem Malik Live", Asif said: "The Afghan Taliban pay a much higher price than Pakistan." He said calls to hold talks with the Taliban now appear misplaced as the truth comes to light, adding that Pakistan has contacts with Saudi Arabia and with other Islamic countries on the matter.

Asif warned of a possible attack from India and said Pakistan remains ready for any aggression; no one should harbour doubt. He said Pakistan faces two fronts and that an internal front could also arise against the state.

He said the situation on the Afghan border has continued for many years. He said, in earlier years, Pakistan did not station troops on that border and passports were not required; when Pakistan fought India, it did not draw troops from the Afghan border.

Asif said that if the entire political leadership unites against terrorism, the country will send a strong message, adding that terrorism is a national issue and the nation must unite.

The defence minister announced an increase in troop numbers in Saudi Arabia and gave an indication that Pakistan may send troops to Gaza if required. He said Pakistan ranks first in the world as a contributor of peacekeepers and that, if necessary, Pakistan should send troops to Gaza.