Pakistan has announced plans to upgrade its diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan by appointing a new ambassador to Kabul— a major step indicating a thaw in strained bilateral relations.
Following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Islamabad had initially welcomed the change, hoping the new regime would address Pakistan’s security concerns. However, the opposite occurred, as cross-border attacks by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants intensified, leading to a breakdown in ties.
Pakistan accused the Afghan government of sheltering TTP militants and repeatedly called for decisive action. Relations began to improve following a trilateral dialogue between China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, held earlier this month in Beijing, where China reportedly played a mediating role.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who visited Kabul on April 19, officially announced the decision to elevate the diplomatic post. “To maintain this momentum, I am pleased to announce Pakistan’s decision to upgrade the level of its Chargé d’Affaires in Kabul to Ambassador,” he posted on X.
Dar said the move will strengthen bilateral cooperation in security, trade, counterterrorism, and economic development, calling the relationship “on a positive trajectory.”
In a related development, Afghan interim foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is expected to visit Islamabad soon—his first trip in two years—reflecting increasing high-level engagements between the two countries. Diplomatic sources confirmed the visit will span three days and cover a wide range of bilateral issues.
Foreign Minister Dar’s recent Kabul trip, the first by a Pakistani minister in three years, helped ease tensions and laid the groundwork for future exchanges. Earlier, a Pakistani delegation led by Special Envoy Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq visited Kabul in March, during which both sides agreed on a roadmap for continued official visits.
Recent actions by the Afghan Taliban to curb militant groups threatening Pakistan have contributed to renewed engagement. A significant indication came from senior Taliban commander Saeedullah Saeed, who on Wednesday publicly denounced unauthorised jihad, especially on Pakistani soil.
