Regional Peace
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Afghanistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and working together towards regional peace, security, and development, following Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s high-profile visit to Kabul.
Leading a senior-level Pakistani delegation, Dar arrived in the Afghan capital on a one-day official visit at the invitation of Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
The visit is being seen as a significant step toward mending strained ties between the two neighboring countries, which have faced diplomatic friction in recent years over security issues, including cross-border militancy and deportation disputes.
The Pakistani delegation included Special Representative for Afghanistan Ambassador Sadiq Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, and federal secretaries for commerce, railways, and interior, among other senior officials.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in an official statement, confirmed that the talks were conducted in a positive and constructive environment, with both sides agreeing to continue dialogue to resolve mutual concerns and enhance regional cooperation.
Upon his arrival at Kabul airport, Dar was warmly received by Afghan dignitaries and Pakistani diplomatic staff based in Afghanistan. This visit marks Dar’s first official trip to Kabul in his capacity as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.
In meetings with senior Afghan officials, including Interim Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund, Acting Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs Mullah Abdul Salam Hanafi, and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, the discussions focused on enhancing economic ties, boosting regional trade, and addressing security concerns.
Speaking to media prior to his departure from Noor Khan Airbase, Dar emphasized the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, characterizing them as “brotherly nations” with shared history, religion, and cultural heritage.
He acknowledged recent tensions, particularly related to national security and terrorism, but expressed hope that dialogue and cooperation could overcome these challenges.
Dar highlighted the immense untapped economic potential between the two nations, especially in trade and connectivity. “There are countless trade and economic opportunities between the two countries. We can connect to Central Asian countries via railways through Afghanistan,” he stated, while urging the development of Afghan infrastructure to support such initiatives.
He stressed that economic integration and mutual cooperation could lead to prosperity for the people of both nations, adding that Pakistan is ready to do whatever it takes to strengthen ties and ensure regional stability.
Dar’s visit is expected to pave the way for further diplomatic engagement, with both sides expressing a willingness to foster stronger ties through continued dialogue and collaboration.
