Pakistan Responds to Speculation on Taliban Government Recognition

Islamabad: Reports suggesting Pakistan might recognize the Taliban administration in Afghanistan are merely speculative, according to Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan.

During the weekly press briefing held on Thursday, the spokesperson stated that the presence of terrorist safe havens operating within Afghanistan’s borders remains a persistent concern for Pakistan.

Khan mentioned that discussions are in progress between the foreign ministries of both Pakistan and Afghanistan to finalize the schedule for the Afghan foreign minister’s upcoming visit.

He added that preparations are underway; however, media reports concerning the official recognition of the Taliban government are premature and based on speculation.

The FO spokesperson also noted that the deadline for the repatriation of registered Afghan refugees concluded on June 30.

“Requests for an extension have been presented to the government, but a decision is pending. The ultimate decision rests with the Ministry of Interior and relevant state institutions.”

Referring to the recent visit of the interior minister to Kabul, Khan emphasized its importance. During this visit, both sides engaged in detailed discussions about security and counter-terrorism efforts, notably the issue of handing over Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) members and other militants.

He conveyed that the Afghan leadership responded favorably to Pakistan’s apprehensions, and security discussions at the technical level are ongoing. An evident enhancement in bilateral relations has been observed, with both countries actively striving to reinforce this positive diplomatic trajectory.

Earlier in the month, Russia formally recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, marking it as the first nation to do so.

Since the US-led forces’ withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 after two decades of conflict, no other nation has officially recognized the Taliban regime.

However, countries like China, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan have appointed ambassadors to Kabul.

Regarding Iran, Khan stated that Islamabad perceives its relations with Tehran as multifaceted and focused on its people. He communicated Pakistan’s backing for diplomatic endeavors to revive the Iran nuclear agreement, stressing that any resolution should be attained via diplomatic means.

He clarified that the previously reported date of July 26 for the Iranian president’s visit was never definitively set and was based on speculation. Both nations will soon jointly announce a mutually convenient date.

Concerning India, Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to resolving all matters, including the Kashmir issue, through dialogue.

He voiced full confidence in Pakistan’s defense capabilities, asserting that any act of aggression would encounter a determined response. “Pakistan stands ready for meaningful discussions, but India’s delaying strategies impede advancement.”

The spokesperson verified that no formal proposal or location for US mediation has been received to date.