High-Level Diplomatic Talks to Restore Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations After Prolonged Political, Economic, and Border Tensions
Islamabad, Pakistan – Al Jazeera Report
Following more than a year of tension and conflict, Pakistan and Afghanistan are now moving toward rebuilding diplomatic ties. On April 19, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited Kabul — the first high-level visit by a Pakistani official to Afghanistan since February 2023.
Analysts see this visit as the first step in thawing relations between the two nations. Just days before, a secret military and intelligence-level meeting was held in Kabul, which is viewed as a major development in efforts to re-establish bilateral relations.
Talks Focused on Security and Trade
Dar held a meeting with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Discussions covered a range of issues including security, trade, transit, regional connectivity, and people-to-people relations.
However, the Afghan side emphasized topics such as the status of refugees, political and economic cooperation, and joint development projects—rather than focusing on security matters.
Dar stated, “We have reached a consensus not to allow our soil to be used for terrorism against each other. It is essential to work together for peace and progress in the region.”
Taliban Rule and the Security Crisis
After the Taliban returned to power in 2021, violence in Pakistan surged—particularly in the border provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Pakistan blames the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for many of these attacks, alleging that they operate from Afghan territory.
In 2024, Pakistan witnessed 521 attacks—an increase of 70% compared to 2023. These attacks resulted in 852 deaths, including 358 law enforcement personnel.
In response, Pakistan began repatriating Afghan refugees. Since November 2023, nearly one million Afghans have been sent back.
New Diplomatic Prospects
Dar’s visit is being widely regarded as the beginning of a diplomatic thaw. Iftikhar Firdous, co-founder of The Khorasan Diary, commented, “This visit is a result of backchannel diplomacy. It’s not a new beginning, but a manifestation of renewed ties.”
Amina Khan, director at ISSI, remarked, “Just as security is critical for Pakistan, trade is equally vital for Kabul. A comprehensive bilateral framework is necessary to rebuild relations.”
UN Report and Reactions
A UN report published in February 2024 alleged that the Taliban were secretly training and funding the TTP. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, however, rejected the claims, calling them “defamation.”
Challenges Ahead
Analysts warn that if the TTP forms an alliance with ISIL, it could pose a serious threat even to the Taliban government. Amina Khan emphasized, “What is now needed is sustained dialogue and a multi-dimensional approach to advancing this relationship.”
