By Eman Alam
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi on Sunday emphasised the importance of Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Line Project for regional connectivity.
They agreed to work closely for an early finalisation of the framework agreement, Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.
The DPM/FM held a telephone conversation with the FM Amir Khan Muttaqi who welcomed the decision of Pakistan to up-grade its diplomatic relations to the ambassador level and informed that Afghanistan has decided to reciprocate the same. He termed it a very positive development in bilateral relations.
Both leaders also reviewed implementation of decisions taken during DPM/FM’s visit to Kabul on 19 April 2025 and vowed to continue working together to establish mutual trust between the two brotherly nations.
Earlier this week, Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed to enhance diplomatic ties by exchanging ambassadors — a major move toward restoring normal relations after years of tension between Islamabad and the Taliban-led government in Kabul.
On Friday, Pakistan announced it would elevate its diplomatic mission in Afghanistan from Charge d’Affaires to Ambassador level, citing a “positive trajectory” in bilateral relations.
The Foreign Office also confirmed that Afghanistan has decided to reciprocate Pakistan’s move by appointing its own ambassador.
Earlier, Pakistan-Afghanistan relations have seen a major breakthrough as Pakistan announced on Friday the decision to appoint a full ambassador to Kabul.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the current diplomatic affairs in Afghanistan are being overseen by a temporary official, but the move to assign an ambassador marks a step forward in restoring full diplomatic engagement.
Following Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to Kabul, relations between the two neighboring countries have shown a positive trajectory. The foreign office spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the growing pace of bilateral engagement.
“This move will further enhance our mutual ties,” the spokesperson stated, adding that it will deepen collaboration in key areas such as trade, security, and economic development, while also boosting high-level exchanges between the two nations.
Earlier, the Afghan Taliban on Wednesday issued stern warning to the Fitna Al-Khawarij, stating that “fighting in any country, particularly Pakistan, without the Emir’s explicit order is not permissible.”
