Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, landed in Kabul on Saturday for a crucial one-day visit. His trip is aimed at addressing security issues and strengthening Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
This important visit comes after the Pak-Afghan Joint Coordination Committee meeting. Pakistan’s team, led by Ambassador Sadiq Khan, discussed mutual interests, especially security and economic cooperation, during that meeting.
Dar Highlights ‘Brotherly Bonds’
Before leaving for Kabul, Ishaq Dar spoke to the media. He emphasized the brotherly ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Dar stated, “Our two countries share a deep and historic bond that we must strengthen further for the good of our people and the region.”
The main goal of Dar’s trip is to raise Pakistan’s security concerns. He plans to focus on cross-border attacks carried out by militant groups allegedly operating from Afghanistan. “Our people’s safety and property security are top priorities,” Dar said. “We will discuss our serious concerns over terrorism with Afghan leaders.”
During his day-long visit, Dar is scheduled to meet top Afghan officials. He will hold talks with Acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund, Acting Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs Mullah Abdul Salam Hanafi, and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. These high-level discussions aim to enhance Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, focusing on security, trade, and economic development.
According to Pakistan’s embassy in Kabul, Dar was warmly welcomed at the airport. Afghan government dignitaries and Pakistan’s Head of Mission, Ambassador Obaidur Rehman Nizamani, were present to receive him. The Foreign Office said the visit is part of efforts to promote goodwill and to improve ties between the neighboring countries.
Dar also spoke about economic opportunities that could boost Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. He pointed to trade, investment, and regional connectivity as key areas of cooperation. Dar stressed the importance of linking Pakistan to Central Asia through Afghanistan, especially via a planned railway project.
“The trade potential between our nations remains largely untouched,” Dar explained. “Building regional infrastructure like the Central Asia railway link needs Afghanistan’s partnership.”
His visit comes amid rising tensions between the two nations. Recent issues include the deportation of Afghan refugees, border skirmishes, and the presence of armed groups within Pakistan. Islamabad has repeatedly accused Kabul of sheltering these groups. Afghan officials deny the claims and insist that Afghan soil is not used for attacks on any country.
Earlier this week, a top Afghan delegation, headed by Acting Minister for Industry and Commerce Nooruddin Azizi, visited Pakistan. The delegation discussed ways to strengthen trade ties. Dar praised these talks, highlighting that both sides are committed to improving Pakistan-Afghanistan relations through better trade cooperation.
Ending his remarks, Dar stressed that his message to Kabul was one of goodwill. He underlined that as Muslim neighbors, both countries must unite for their people’s prosperity. “We must focus on economic growth and the well-being of our nations. Working together is essential,” he concluded.
