Kabul – The foreign minister and deputy prime minister of Pakistan, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, arrived in Kabul today to attend the sixth trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
The high-level discussions, which center on strengthening regional cooperation, show that the three countries are working together to address common issues in connectivity, trade, and, above all, counterterrorism. The continued effort to stabilize regional security and economic ties is highlighted by the arrival of Pakistan’s top diplomat in the Afghan capital.
Arrival in Kabul and Diplomatic Delegation
Pakistan’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Obaidur Rehman Nizamani, and Afghanistan’s deputy foreign minister, Mohammad Naeem, welcomed Mr. Dar upon his arrival.
Along with other top officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Pakistani delegation also includes Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq, who is the Special Representative for Afghanistan and the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister. The diplomatic importance Islamabad attaches to the outcome of these talks is emphasized in this composition.
Agenda of the Talks
Although the trilateral discussions will cover a wide range of topics, three main areas will be the main focus. First, one of the main goals is to improve trade relations. The three countries intend to increase the volume of goods exchanged by accelerating customs procedures and developing more effective transit routes, which could significantly boost the region’s economy.
Second, regional connectivity will be the main topic of discussion. This entails organizing and carrying out infrastructure projects, like roads and railroads, that will improve the connectivity between the three nations and make it easier for people and goods to move around. These connectivity initiatives are essential for enhancing Pakistan’s position as a gateway to Central Asia and for releasing the economic potential of a landlocked Afghanistan.
The meeting’s final and potentially most significant topic will be counterterrorism. China and Pakistan have both voiced grave concerns about the existence of militant organizations based in Afghanistan. Pakistan has been especially outspoken in its criticism of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which it claims uses Afghanistan as a safe haven for attacks. In a similar vein, the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) worries China.
It is anticipated that the trilateral discussions will serve as a platform for an open discussion of these security concerns in order to develop a coordinated plan to eliminate terrorist threats and maintain regional stability.
Bilateral Meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister
Mr. Dar is also expected to meet separately with Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister of Afghanistan, in addition to the trilateral meeting. Discussions on specific bilateral issues, such as border management, the recent deportations of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, and other topics of shared interest, will be expected during this one-on-one meeting.
Managing the complicated and frequently tense relationship between the two neighbouring countries requires this open channel of communication.
Broader Context and Regional Implications
The objective of this round of talks is to stabilize Afghanistan and further integrate it into the regional economy. Pakistan and Afghanistan are working to create a more secure and prosperous future for their people by interacting closely with the Afghan government and enlisting China as a vital ally.
International and regional observers will be closely monitoring the outcome of these negotiations because it may establish a new standard for how neighbours can work together to handle common issues in a politically delicate setting. The concrete steps taken to promote enduring peace and stability in an area that has historically been characterized by conflict will serve as a barometer for the success of these talks.
