Afghans Denounce Cross-Border Shelling From Pakistan

August 30, 2012

by RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan

Hundreds of Afghans have held a demonstration in Kabul to condemn shelling by Pakistani forces of areas of eastern Afghanistan.

The protesters chanted anti-Pakistani slogans as they marched in one of Kabul's busy bazaars on August 30.

The demonstrators called on the Afghan government to provide weapons to them so they can help defend Konar Province.

Afghan officials say that cross-border artillery fire by Pakistani troops in the area has in some cases targeted civilians, causing injuries and driving residents from their villages.

Earlier this month, President Hamid Karzai raised the issue with his Pakistani counterpart, Asif Ali Zardari.

The two leaders agreed to form a joint delegation to visit the area and investigate the shelling claims. It is not clear whether the commission has yet been formed.

With reporting by Pajhwok.com

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/afghans-protest-pakistani-border-shelling/24693069.html

Copyright (c) 2012. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.