Pakistan Pursues Improved Relations with Afghanistan through Diplomatic Engagement

Pakistan seeks to enhance its relationship with Afghanistan through planned high-level visits to address bilateral issues including terrorism and refugee management. Special Envoy Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq briefed the Senate on these initiatives, which are aimed at fostering improved ties and mitigating tensions. Additionally, Afghanistan raised concerns about refugee deportation practices affecting relations.

Pakistan is optimistic about improving its relations with Afghanistan, as indicated by recent discussions held in a Senate panel. Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq, outlined plans for high-level visits aimed at easing tensions between the two nations during a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. This initiative is part of broader efforts to address issues such as terrorist sanctuaries within Afghanistan.

Ambassador Sadiq’s visit to Kabul last month was a significant step towards establishing dialogue and exploring solutions for ongoing bilateral challenges. In a closed session chaired by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, he articulated the current state of affairs and the necessity for constructive engagement to strengthen ties. The committee is anticipating the scheduling of further high-level meetings to advance this diplomatic effort.

Senator Irfan Siddiqui conveyed to the press that there is a growing optimism for improving relations, stating that he identified the need for the revival of bilateral discussions. The focus remains on addressing the issue of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in conversations with Afghan authorities, as both parties recognize the importance of collaborative approaches to security and stability.

In a separate meeting, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi expressed concerns regarding the forced deportation of Afghan refugees by Pakistani authorities, labeling these actions as detrimental to the relationship between the countries. He urged for a cessation of such measures, which have been characterized as provocative. The Pakistani Chargé d’Affaires acknowledged these concerns and committed to addressing them with the appropriate bodies.

Comprehensive discussions on political and economic issues underscored the necessity of effective cooperation and the exchange of high-level delegations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Following the deportations of undocumented Afghans that commenced in October 2023, Pakistan has since extended repatriation efforts to those holding Afghan Citizen Cards, with the Pakistani government justifying its stance by asserting it cannot offer indefinite hospitality to undocumented migrants.

In conclusion, the prospects for a reset in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are increasingly hopeful with planned high-level engagements and acknowledgment of critical issues such as security and refugee management. The diplomatic dialogue aims to address existing tensions and facilitate a more stable bilateral partnership, essential for regional stability. Continuous efforts from both nations will be pivotal in achieving a constructive and beneficial outcome for their collective futures.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk