Ishaq Dar Embarks on Kabul Visit Amidst Bilateral Tensions

Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar commenced a one-day official journey to Kabul on Saturday. He was accompanied by a prominent delegation, occurring in a period of complex relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan concerning security anxieties and matters of deportation.

A press statement from the Foreign Office indicated, “The DPM/FM is heading an eminent delegation, featuring Special Representative for Afghanistan Ambassador Sadiq Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, federal secretaries responsible for commerce, railways, and interior affairs, along with other high-ranking officials.”

Prior to his departure, the deputy prime minister engaged with the press at Noor Khan Airbase. He underscored the importance of the bond between Pakistan and its western neighbor.

He stated, “Afghanistan is a neighboring Islamic nation, and Pakistan shares enduring and historical connections with it. The association between Pakistan and Afghanistan resembles that of siblings, intrinsically linked, and ideally, it should persist in this manner.”

Dar recognized the deterioration in relations between the two nations in recent times, primarily attributed to worries about national security.

“A certain coolness has emerged in the relationship lately, chiefly due to Pakistan’s security, the well-being of our citizens and their properties, and the paramount issue of terrorism for Pakistan,” he elaborated.

Despite these difficulties, the deputy prime minister voiced optimism regarding the potential for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

Dar commented, “Numerous trade and economic opportunities exist between our nations. We have the potential to establish rail links to Central Asian countries through Afghanistan. Realizing this vision hinges on the presence of a fully functional railway authority in Afghanistan.”

He voiced his concern that the current economic possibilities within the Pakistan-Afghanistan relationship remain largely untapped and emphasized the necessity for enhanced collaboration.

“I approach this visit with goodwill, aiming to foster closer ties between these two Islamic nations. We must dedicate ourselves to advancing economic progress and improving the welfare of our people through collaborative efforts.”

During his stay, Dar is slated to engage with leading Afghan figures to deliberate on matters of mutual interest, commerce, and stability within the region.