RASC News Agency: A report published on Monday by the Pakistani Express Tribune reveals that the central focus of discussions between Mohammad Sadiq Khan, Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, and Taliban officials was the activities of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Sources cited by the newspaper indicate that the Taliban expressed concerns about the TTP’s operations and urged Pakistan to provide additional time and collaboration in addressing the growing threat. According to informed sources, during the meeting with Pakistan’s envoy, Taliban officials admitted their inability to fully control the activities of the Pakistani Taliban, especially the group’s movements along the shared borders. The Taliban remarked that, given Pakistan’s vast military capabilities and resources, it has struggled to curb the influence of the TTP, and thus it is unrealistic to expect Afghanistan’s Taliban to accomplish this task.
In response, Pakistan remained unconvinced by the Taliban’s explanations and insisted that more decisive actions be taken to address the threat, including preventing Afghanistani nationals from joining the TTP. Mohammad Sadiq Khan concluded his three-day visit to Kabul on Sunday, March 23. During the visit, he met with Afghanistan’s foreign and trade ministers as well as other senior Taliban officials. Additionally, there are plans for upcoming meetings between ministers from both sides. At the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul, Khan emphasized that the economic interests of both Pakistan and Afghanistan are intrinsically linked. He stated, “Both countries must cooperate to expand bilateral trade and enhance regional connectivity.”
This visit took place amid heightened tensions between the two countries, driven by several significant challenges, including mutual accusations, disruptions in trade due to the 27-day closure of the Torkham border, and the deadline for the expulsion of Afghanistani refugees. After the 27-day closure, the Torkham border crossing has now reopened for movement. The Taliban have also urged Pakistani officials to cease their crackdown on refugees, allowing them to return voluntarily to Afghanistan. In this context, Pakistan has issued a deadline for undocumented refugees, instructing them to leave the country by the end of March.
