Pakistan Day in Kabul: A Message of Peace, Trade, and Regional Cooperation

Kabul, March 23, 2025 — Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq Khan, underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan during a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul. His remarks emphasized the need for both countries to enhance cooperation on trade, security, and regional development.

Addressing a gathering on Pakistan Day, Ambassador Khan stated, “Pakistan and Afghanistan’s economic interests are intrinsically interlinked. Peace and progress in Afghanistan is essential for regional stability.” The envoy’s visit to Kabul further affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering regional peace and promoting economic growth through constructive engagement with Afghanistan.

Ambassador Khan’s comments were made in the context of ongoing discussions aimed at resolving key challenges, including trade disruptions and the status of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. During his two-day visit (March 21-22), Khan met with Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi to discuss these issues.

Both sides agreed on the importance of removing trade barriers and streamlining transit routes to enhance economic growth. Ambassador Khan emphasized, “Pakistan and Afghanistan must synergize their efforts to foster regional economic development. Afghanistan remains one of Pakistan’s most important regional partners.”

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

Torkham Border Reopened After 27 Days

One of the most significant developments during this diplomatic visit was the reopening of the Torkham border after a 27-day closure. The border, which had been shut down due to a dispute over construction activities, was reopened following successful negotiations mediated by a jirga. This resumption of trade and pedestrian movement marks a critical step toward enhancing regional connectivity and restoring economic ties between the two countries.

Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, Senior Vice President of the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI), highlighted that the closure had severely disrupted trade, with figures dropping from $2.5 billion to a mere $5-6 million. The resumption of trade, including the clearance of 5,000 stranded trucks, brought relief to traders, though concerns remain over the 2% “Infrastructure Development Cess” imposed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has led some businesses to shift to Balochistan.

Sarhadi emphasized the need for long-term solutions to address such barriers to trade, calling for continued collaboration between the two nations to ensure mutual economic benefit.

Diplomatic Engagement Amid Security Concerns

Despite the focus on trade and economic cooperation, Pakistan has expressed ongoing concerns about the presence of elements linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan, which remain a major security issue for Islamabad. These concerns highlight the delicate balance between Pakistan’s efforts to foster regional stability through dialogue and the ongoing security challenges that continue to affect the relationship.

Ambassador Sadiq Khan also expressed Pakistan’s continued commitment to ensuring the dignified return of Afghan refugees, while stressing that Afghanistan and Pakistan must work together to enhance bilateral trade and regional connectivity. The diplomatic mission has called for the removal of all trade barriers and efforts to streamline cross-border transit to ensure the free flow of goods and services.

Ongoing Discussions and U.S. Engagement with Afghanistan

In a parallel development, a U.S. delegation—including former envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Trump’s hostage envoy Adam Boehler—visited Kabul on March 20 for discussions with the Afghan government. This marked the first in-person engagement between the U.S. and the Taliban government since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. The talks centered on the release of American hostage George Glezmann and broader security and humanitarian issues, further demonstrating Afghanistan’s key role in the region.

The Qatar-based diplomatic effort facilitating these talks could open the door to a broader dialogue between the U.S. and Afghanistan, addressing both political and security concerns. Boehler’s previous engagements, including his involvement in the Abraham Accords, also indicate the broader scope of U.S. efforts in the region.

The Path Forward for Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations

Ambassador Sadiq Khan’s visit to Kabul is a clear indication of Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and stability. By focusing on economic development, trade enhancement, and regional connectivity, Pakistan aims to foster a constructive relationship with Afghanistan, even as complex security dynamics persist.

Pakistan’s Head of Mission in Kabul, Ambassador Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, also emphasized the importance of honoring Pakistan’s freedom fighters and renewing the country’s resilience in overcoming both internal and external challenges. He called for a unified effort toward strengthening Pakistan’s position as a stable, prosperous regional actor.

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