Kabul | July 2, 2025 — The Afghanistan Islamic Emirate has once again reaffirmed its position regarding Afghanistan-Pakistan relations, emphasizing that Afghan territory will not be allowed to serve as a base for hostile activities against neighboring Pakistan. Deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat made this declaration in a detailed interview with HTN Pashto, highlighting positive diplomatic and economic developments between the two countries.
Afghanistan-Pakistan Relations Witness Diplomatic Uplift
On Tuesday, during the exclusive conversation held in Kabul, Fitrat clearly stated that the Islamic Emirate remains fully committed to ensuring that Afghan soil will not be used to target any nation. He stressed this commitment is especially significant in the context of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations, given their shared history and geographic proximity.
Furthermore, Fitrat acknowledged that both countries have made tangible progress in recent months. As part of this diplomatic upswing, Afghanistan and Pakistan have successfully upgraded their representation to the ambassadorial level. According to Fitrat, this move represents a major milestone in rebuilding bilateral trust and signifies a strong willingness to collaborate on various fronts.
Moreover, he underscored that both states recognize the strategic importance of expanding bilateral cooperation. Fitrat explained that Afghanistan and Pakistan have reached a mutual understanding that robust trade and economic connections are essential. He also pointed out that the two countries are actively working to deepen their cooperation through regional development projects, which include long-discussed initiatives such as the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline.
Trade, Connectivity, and Regional Projects: A Shared Vision
Transitioning to the economic front, Fitrat noted that Afghanistan conducts a significant portion of its international trade through Pakistan. Consequently, the Islamic Emirate is fully focused on strengthening bilateral trade ties. He emphasized that improved connectivity not only benefits the two nations individually but also enhances regional stability and economic integration.
Notably, Fitrat referred to joint development ventures such as TAPI and CASA-1000, claiming that Afghanistan has already started on-ground implementation of such initiatives. These infrastructure projects, he argued, will serve as cornerstones for broader regional connectivity, reinforcing the interdependence of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations.
At the same time, Fitrat acknowledged the presence of longstanding challenges, particularly concerning Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan. He noted that Pakistan has pledged to resolve these humanitarian concerns and that both governments are in active dialogue to find long-term solutions. Although he did not delve into specifics, Fitrat stressed that refugee welfare and economic cooperation remain priority issues in the bilateral agenda.
Security Concerns Linger Amid Diplomatic Optimism
Despite the optimistic tone, the backdrop of Fitrat’s statements remains complex. Islamabad continues to express concern over cross-border attacks carried out by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), whose presence inside Afghanistan remains a key irritant in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations.
While Fitrat reiterated that the Islamic Emirate will never allow Afghan soil to be used against any country, particularly Pakistan, security analysts argue that the gap between rhetoric and reality still exists. The presence of TTP leadership and networks in Afghan provinces like Kunar, Nuristan, Khost, and Paktika; where digital operations, ideological training, and fundraising reportedly continue, poses a significant threat to regional peace.
This contradiction between stated policy and on-ground activity continues to strain trust, a sentiment echoed by Pakistani officials and independent observers alike. They argue that while statements like Fitrat’s are politically necessary, they must be followed by verifiable action against non-state actors operating within Afghanistan’s borders.
Nevertheless, Fitrat maintained that Afghanistan-Pakistan relations are on an upward trajectory and can further improve if both sides commit to mutual respect, shared interests, and regional cooperation.
In conclusion, while Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate issues strong assurances regarding security and regional partnership, the future of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations will depend largely on translating words into concrete, trust-building actions. From diplomatic upgrades and trade facilitation to regional infrastructure and refugee welfare, both nations have a broad field for collaboration, provided that security challenges are addressed with urgency and transparency.
