Pakistan: Officials have reported that Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban government have reached an agreement to increase trade and reduce tensions along their border. This comes as Pakistan faces a wave of attacks on its security forces. The move is aimed at easing tensions between the two neighbouring countries and promoting economic cooperation.
As per Pakistan’s foreign ministry, the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Afghanistan’s foreign minister appointed by the Taliban, Mr. Amir Khan Muttaqi, signed an agreement in Islamabad. The deal is aimed at boosting economic ties and reducing border tensions between the two countries.
The recently signed agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban-appointed government aims to enhance bilateral trade, counteract terrorism, and strengthen the relationship between the two neighbouring countries.
A statement released by Pakistan’s foreign ministry has revealed that Mr. Zardari and Mr. Muttaqi engaged in a comprehensive discussion. The topics addressed included mutual concerns surrounding peace and security, as well as issues pertaining to trade and connectivity. The statement also mentioned that the conversation between the two officials was honest and open.
Had a frank and candid exchange on wide ranging issues of mutual interest with Acting Afghan FM @FMMuttaqi @ForeignOfficePk today. Underscored the importance of frequent leadership level exchanges to provide further stimulus to Pakistan-Afghanistan bilateral relations. pic.twitter.com/aHotxKQLhN
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) May 7, 2023
The Afghan embassy shared via Twitter that Mr. Muttaqi and his delegation had met with Mr. Zardari and other Pakistani officials. The discussion focused on matters of mutual interest, including political and economic relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as challenges faced by Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Additionally, the talks covered the transit relations between the two neighbouring countries.