Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar contacted Afghanistan’s interim Prime Minister, Mullah Muhammad Hasan Akhund, emphasizing the necessity of collaborating to achieve mutual objectives amidst escalating tensions owing to increased cross-border terrorist attacks. Kakar highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations, grounded in shared history, culture, and religion, and voiced Islamabad’s commitment to enhancing bilateral political, security, and economic ties with Kabul.
He responded to a congratulatory message from Akhund, acknowledging Pakistan’s efforts in fostering stable peace in the region and facilitating growth in trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian Republics, recognizing the importance of regional trade connectivity. Kakar also noted that Pakistan retains the right to defend itself against potential terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil, according to the Doha agreement provisions.
Navigating Trade Discrepancies and Border Clashes
Recent conflicts have seen accusations from Pakistan towards the interim Afghan government for misusing the transit trade agreement. The Foreign Office stressed the imperative for both countries to adhere to existing agreements and Pakistani laws concerning border trade, noting the substantial growth in commercial activities between the nations facilitated by Pakistan.
This dialogue follows a border clash on September 6 that resulted in an injured Frontier Corps soldier and the subsequent closure of the Torkham border for over a week. Kakar emphasized the Taliban’s commitment to preventing the use of Afghan land for terrorist activities and their ongoing efforts to address Afghan transit issues, including illegal trade, underscoring the readiness to make necessary decisions to safeguard its citizens and territory.
Read: Torkham Border Closure Continues: Trade Halts Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
