Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – In a major step towards reviving diplomatic relations, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar made a landmark visit to Kabul today—marking the first high-level Pakistani visit to Afghanistan since February 2023.
Dar’s trip comes after a year of strained ties, marred by border clashes, repeated border closures, and Pakistan’s ongoing expulsion of Afghan refugees. His visit follows recent behind-the-scenes military and intelligence meetings, indicating a fresh attempt to reset relations.
In Kabul, Dar met with Afghanistan’s interim Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Discussions centered on security, trade, transit, and regional connectivity. While Pakistan emphasized security cooperation, Afghanistan focused on refugee issues and economic ties.
At a press briefing, Dar called for open communication to resolve disputes, affirming, “Neither will we allow our soil to be used against Afghanistan, nor should Afghan soil be used against us.”
Pakistan has long accused the Taliban-led Afghan government of allowing the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to operate from Afghan territory. A UN report in February supported those concerns, though Kabul has rejected the allegations.
The visit comes amid a growing insurgency in Pakistan, which recorded over 500 attacks in 2024, mostly in border provinces. Islamabad has cited this violence as justification for expelling nearly one million undocumented Afghans since November 2023—a move heavily criticized by rights groups.
Analysts say the visit may mark a diplomatic thaw, though key differences persist. Pakistan seeks security guarantees; Afghanistan demands humane treatment of refugees and stronger trade ties.
Experts agree: Dar’s visit has broken the ice, but sustained dialogue will be critical to achieving regional stability.
