In a significant step to mend strained ties, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to ensure that neither country will allow its soil to be used for terrorist activities against the other. The agreement was reached during a crucial visit by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Kabul, aimed at addressing mutual concerns, including cross-border security issues and the expulsion of Afghan refugees.
Key Agreement: Joint Efforts to Prevent Terrorism
During his daylong visit, Dar held talks with Afghanistan’s top leadership, including Acting Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The agreement highlighted the commitment of both nations to work together for regional peace, security, and prosperity.
Dar emphasized that Pakistan and Afghanistan would jointly prevent any illicit activities that threaten the security of both nations. He stated, “For that, neither will we allow anyone to use our soil to conduct illicit activities in Afghanistan and graciously nor will you allow anyone (to use Afghan soil).” Both sides agreed to take strict action against individuals using their territories for terrorist activities.
Efforts to Address Security Concerns and Refugee Issues
The visit came amid Pakistan’s heightened security concerns and its efforts to address the issue of illegal Afghan refugees. Pakistan has been enforcing stricter policies, requiring Afghan nationals to enter the country with valid visas. During the talks, Dar assured that Afghan refugees would not be mistreated, and their property rights would be respected.
Afghan Foreign Minister Muttaqi voiced concerns over the treatment of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, urging the government to prevent violations of their rights. He also highlighted Afghanistan’s interest in expanding trade and joint projects with Pakistan.
Focus on Regional Cooperation and Border Management
Both sides discussed strategies to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including security, trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. Dar stressed the importance of addressing security and border management issues to unlock the full potential for regional trade and connectivity.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Concerns Over Exclusion from Talks
Meanwhile, in Peshawar, a key aide of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur criticized the federal government for not involving Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the discussions with Afghanistan. The province, which shares a border with Afghanistan, has been increasingly vulnerable to terror attacks since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
