Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar paid an official visit to Kabul, where he held high-level meetings with the Afghan leadership to strengthen bilateral relations, boost trade, and enhance regional security.
During his meeting with Acting Afghan Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Salam Hanafi, the two leaders engaged in detailed discussions on peace, security, trade, and people-to-people connections. Both sides expressed a strong commitment to deepen cooperation in all areas for the benefit of their peoples and agreed to continue contacts for regional economic development.
Mutual trade and transit cooperation
Ishaq Dar emphasized the importance of enhancing mutual trade and transit facilities between the two neighbouring countries. He announced that the much-anticipated Transit Track and Trade System would become operational on June 30. This system, designed to accelerate the flow of Afghan transit goods, is expected to significantly ease bilateral trade and reduce logistical costs.
“The FBR and Customs are fully onboard to implement this system,” said Dar, adding that two additional companies will join the National Logistics Cell (NLC) to introduce healthy competition and ensure savings.
He also revealed that a long-standing proposal for insurance guarantees on transit goods had been approved. “In the future, A++ insurance company guarantees will be accepted in place of traditional bank guarantees,” Dar said.
Furthermore, he confirmed that cross-stuffing—a facility that allows the transfer of goods from one container to another—will begin from June 30, 2025, starting with 500 consignments monthly.
Security and anti-terrorism cooperation
The deputy prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s strong stance against terrorism and affirmed that both countries will not allow their territory to be used for terror-related activities.
“Afghanistan is committed to ensuring that no one uses its land against Pakistan, and we will do the same,” said Dar. “If such incidents occur, both countries will take joint and immediate action.”
Dar emphasized that peace and security are shared responsibilities and vital for regional development. “We must work together to ensure a peaceful and stable future for our people.”
Afghan refugees and humanitarian commitment
Speaking on the refugee issue, Dar said the interim Afghan foreign minister had taken four important decisions concerning Afghan refugees in Pakistan. He assured that all refugees would be sent back with dignity and respect, and that no order had been issued by the Pakistani government to seize Afghan-owned properties.
“The Pakistani government has not ordered the seizure of any Afghan's land or property or that their property can't be purchased. If any such complaint arises, a special complaint cell has been established for immediate redressal,” he added. "We will have to work together for the development, improvement, and peace and security of the region."
Message of brotherhood
Calling Afghanistan his "second home," Ishaq Dar underscored the need to further enhance mutual trust and cooperation. “We will not allow anyone to damage the brotherly atmosphere between our nations,” he stated, while also extending a formal invitation to his Afghan counterpart to visit Pakistan.
Earlier, Dar held talks with Acting Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, where both sides discussed matters of mutual interest.
According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the discussions focused on regional security, boosting trade and transit, and increasing cross-border connectivity.
Stronger ties and regional connectivity
Dar emphasized the importance of resolving outstanding issues, particularly those related to security and border management, to pave the way for greater regional trade and connectivity. “Pakistan desires the development and prosperity of the brotherly country Afghanistan,” said the deputy prime minister.
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Welcoming gesture and shared goals
Upon his arrival at the Afghan Foreign Ministry in Kabul, Ishaq Dar was warmly received by Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Their talks highlighted the long-standing historical ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan and reaffirmed the mutual will to further cement diplomatic and economic relations.
Earlier, Dar arrived in Kabul on Saturday for a one-day visit aimed at addressing ongoing security concerns between the two neighbouring countries. This visit follows the recent Pak-Afghan Joint Coordination Committee meeting, during which Pakistan's delegation, led by Ambassador Sadiq Khan, discussed mutual interests, including security and economic cooperation.
Dar stresses 'brotherly ties'
Before his departure, Dar underscored the deep-rooted brotherly ties shared by Pakistan and Afghanistan, stressing the need to further bolster these relations.
Speaking to the media, he remarked, "Our two countries have a long-standing and deeply ingrained bond, which we aim to strengthen further for the mutual benefit of our people and the region."
