Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Visits Kabul

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has commenced an official one-day visit to Afghanistan, according to state media reports on Sunday.

Upon his arrival at Kabul airport, Minister Naqvi was greeted by Mohammad Nabi Omari, the Afghan Interim Deputy Interior Minister, along with senior officials from the Afghan Ministry of Interior.

Key Discussions Planned

During his stay, the Interior Minister is scheduled to engage in discussions with his Afghan counterpart, Sirajuddin Haqqani.

Improving Bilateral Relations

This visit follows collaborative efforts by both nations to strengthen their relationship, including the elevation of diplomatic representatives from chargé d’affaires to ambassadorial status.

Both Pakistan and Afghanistan maintain embassies in each other’s capitals, which were previously headed by chargés d’affaires instead of ambassadors.

Notably, China was the first nation to accept an ambassador from the Taliban-led administration in Kabul, despite not formally recognizing their government. Several other nations, including the UAE, have since followed suit.

Border and Terrorism Concerns

The two countries share an extensive and permeable border stretching approximately 2,500 kilometers, featuring multiple crossing points crucial for regional trade and interpersonal connections.

Terrorism remains a primary concern for Pakistan, which has implored Afghanistan to prevent its territory from being utilized by groups like the TTP for launching attacks within Pakistan.

Boosting Regional Connectivity

Recently, Pakistan finalized a trilateral railway agreement with Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and promoting economic integration.

The UAP Railway Project seeks to establish a rail link connecting Uzbekistan with Pakistan through Afghanistan, thereby facilitating access to Pakistani seaports for Central Asian countries.

Furthermore, the inaugural session of the Additional Secretary-Level Mechanism talks between the two nations occurred earlier this month.