Pakistan and Afghanistan have made important progress in the first round of additional secretary-level multilateral talks held in Islamabad, with both sides agreeing to strengthen cooperation on trade, transit, security, regional connectivity, and legal mobility.
The Pakistani delegation was led by Ambassador Ali Asad Gilani, while the Afghan delegation was headed by Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor. The discussions took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and focused on matters of mutual interest, including terrorism, bilateral relations, cross-border movement, and infrastructure projects.
Terrorism, security top the agenda
Both sides acknowledged terrorism as a serious threat to regional peace and security, and regional coordination as key to sustainable development and prosperity. Pakistan urged the Afghan delegation to take concrete steps against terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to counter extremist threats in the region.
Trade and transit facilitation
The talks also reviewed ongoing measures aimed at facilitating Afghan transit trade through Pakistan. These include the suspension of a 10% fee, reduction in scanning procedures, and easing of insurance guarantees. The parties emphasized the importance of smoother trade mechanisms to boost economic activity and bilateral ties.
Legal mobility and visa facilitation
The two countries agreed to enhance legal mobility by promoting regularized cross-border movement. The Pakistani side shared that over 500,000 Afghan nationals have been issued visas for medical, business, tourism, and educational purposes since January 2024.
"This reflects Pakistan’s commitment to legal mobility and people-to-people contacts," said a Foreign Office spokesperson.
Focus on regional connectivity
A key outcome of the dialogue was the agreement to finalize the framework for the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Railway Project — a major regional connectivity initiative. Both delegations described such infrastructure as vital for sustainable development and regional prosperity.
Repatriation of Afghan nationals
The return of undocumented Afghan citizens also came under discussion. Pakistani officials reiterated the country’s policy of voluntary and dignified return, calling for continued engagement on the issue.
The two countries agreed to maintain continuous communication and cooperation to resolve mutual challenges. The next round of talks will be scheduled through mutual consultation.
Later, Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor called on Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, who stressed regular engagement to deepen ties, address concerns, and promote regional peace and prosperity between the two countries.
