In a notable diplomatic development, Afghan Interim Foreign Minister Mullah Amir Khan Muttaqi is scheduled to visit Pakistan in the first week of August, according to diplomatic sources.
The visit is being viewed as a potential breakthrough in the frosty Pak-Afghan relationship that has seen significant strain in recent years.
This will be Mullah Muttaqi’s first official trip to Pakistan since November 2021. His visit is expected to focus on key areas including bilateral relations, regional security, diplomacy, and border management. Sources say extensive meetings are on the cards with Pakistan’s top leadership during the visit.
The renewed engagement comes after a series of quiet but significant moves on both sides. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar made back-to-back visits to Kabul earlier in April and July, signalling Islamabad’s intent to re-engage with the Taliban-led administration in Kabul. Similarly, former Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also led a crucial delegation to Afghanistan during his tenure, further contributing to the diplomatic momentum.
Adding to this positive trajectory, a high-level Afghan trade delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Commerce arrived in Islamabad last night. Talks are currently underway between the two countries on finalising the Pak-Afghan Preferential Trade Agreement — a framework aimed at boosting bilateral trade and addressing mutual economic concerns.
The series of high-level exchanges signals a thaw in relations, with both nations appearing to shift toward pragmatic diplomacy after months of tensions over border issues and cross-border militancy.
Diplomatic observers believe that the upcoming visit of Mullah Muttaqi could mark a turning point in efforts to restore trust and cooperation between the two uneasy neighbours.
Reporter: Anwer Abbas