Ambassador Sadiq Khan on Pakistan Day: Stronger Pakistan-Afghanistan Ties Key to Stability

As the sun rose over Kabul on Pakistan Day, the green and white flag fluttered at the Pakistani Embassy, marking a moment of both celebration and diplomatic reflection. Against the backdrop of a complex regional landscape, Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq Khan, took the stage to reaffirm Islamabad’s commitment to peace, trade, and stability in Afghanistan—an agenda that remains central to the future of both nations.

“Pakistan and Afghanistan’s economic interests are intrinsically interlinked. Peace and progress in Afghanistan is essential for regional stability,” he stated, setting the tone for a discussion that extended beyond ceremonial formalities to pressing economic and security challenges.

The flag-hoisting ceremony, attended by senior diplomats and officials, was not just a symbolic event. It came at a critical juncture as both countries navigate strained trade relations, border management complexities, and the ongoing issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

“Pakistan and Afghanistan must synergize their efforts to foster regional economic development. Afghanistan remains one of the most important regional partners of Pakistan. Both countries must work together to enhance bilateral trade and galvanize regional connectivity. Pakistan remains committed to a strong and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship with Afghanistan,” Ambassador Sadiq Khan emphasized in his address.

Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq Khan’s visit to Kabul stands as a strong symbol of Pakistan’s commitment to peace and economic progress, reflecting a spirit of dialogue and regional cooperation. His presence underscores Pakistan’s desire to engage Afghanistan constructively, emphasizing collaboration for mutual prosperity.

During his two-day visit to Kabul (March 21-22), Ambassador Sadiq met Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, where discussions centered on trade, security, and the repatriation of Afghan refugees. Both sides agreed on the urgency of removing trade barriers and streamlining transit routes to promote economic growth.

Border Tensions and Trade Disruptions

The reopening of the Torkham border after a 27-day closure was a key development that underscored the fragile nature of cross-border trade. Closed since February 21 due to a dispute over construction activities, the crossing reopened following negotiations mediated by a jirga. This successful reopening highlights Pakistan’s proactive steps toward enhancing trade and connectivity, thus laying the foundation for shared prosperity between the two nations.

While the temporary arrangement remains in place until April 15, officials from both countries continue negotiations for a long-term solution. The impact of such disruptions has been severe, with Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, Senior Vice President of the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI), warning that trade between the two countries has plummeted from $2.5 billion to just $5-6 million due to frequent border closures.

“KP’s 2% ‘Infrastructure Development Cess’ forced businesses to shift to Balochistan—’even at 1%, the damage is done!'” Sarhadi noted, highlighting how regional trade policies have affected economic flows.

With the resumption of trade, 5,000 stranded trucks were cleared, a move welcomed by traders and business communities on both sides. Pakistan also granted special medical travel permissions to Afghan patients, while authorities reinforced that entry would only be permitted for those holding valid passports and visas.

Diplomatic Engagement and Security Talks

Ambassador Sadiq Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance on a phased, dignified return of Afghan refugees, assuring Afghan officials that visa processes would be facilitated to ease movement between the two countries.

“Both countries must work together to enhance bilateral trade and galvanize regional connectivity,” he reiterated, urging sustained cooperation to overcome political and economic roadblocks.

Pakistan’s Head of Mission in Kabul, Ambassador Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the historical significance of March 23rd and the sacrifices made for Pakistan’s independence.

“We must honor and appreciate the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and renew our strong commitment to building a stable and prosperous Pakistan,” Ambassador Nizamani stated.

Messages from Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar were also read out during the event, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to a resilient and progressive Pakistan.

U.S.-Afghanistan Dialogue Resumes

The diplomatic landscape in Kabul has been busy in recent days, with a U.S. delegation—including former envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Trump’s hostage envoy Adam Boehler—meeting with Afghan officials on March 20.

This marked the first direct engagement between Washington and the Taliban government since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. Talks focused on the release of American hostage George Glezmann, as well as broader security and humanitarian issues. The meeting was facilitated by Qatar, which has played a key role in bridging dialogue between Washington and Kabul since 2022.

Interestingly, Boehler—who played a pivotal role in securing the Abraham Accords under the first Trump administration—had earlier engaged with Hamas officials to negotiate the release of five American hostages held in Gaza, including Edan Alexander, the only remaining American hostage still alive.

Regional Security Dynamics

However, despite the constructive discussions on trade and refugees, Pakistan has consistently expressed concerns that elements linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) continue to find refuge in Afghanistan. This concern underscores the challenges of regional security, highlighting the gap between cooperation on economic matters and the reality of security threats.

This juxtaposition, where Pakistan’s efforts aim at fostering mutual trust and stability, while accusations persist about Afghanistan inadvertently supporting extremist groups, illustrates the complex security dynamics of the region. While economic cooperation is being strengthened, these underlying security concerns remain a critical issue that needs urgent attention.

Overall, the envoy’s visit is a testament to Pakistan’s enduring resolve to promote peace and progress, advocating for constructive engagement even as it seeks to address long-standing security concerns.

Also See: Pakistan-Afghanistan Torkham Border Crisis: A Gateway for Third-Party Exploitation

Looking Ahead

As Pakistan and Afghanistan deal with a delicate phase in their relationship, the road ahead remains complex. While efforts to enhance economic cooperation, address border tensions, and manage refugee repatriation are underway, challenges persist.

With talks set to continue and both sides emphasizing long-term regional connectivity, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of bilateral ties. However, the broader question remains: Will these commitments translate into lasting stability, or will geopolitical hurdles once again disrupt progress?

Disclaimer: This report is compiled by Nasib Shah Shinwari, SAT Correspondent, Landikotal.

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