ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has taken a significant step to strengthen its relationship with Afghanistan by upgrading its diplomatic mission from Chargé d’Affaires to Ambassador level.
This move marks an important milestone in normalizing ties between the two neighboring countries after years of tension and mistrust.
Improving Bilateral Relations
The decision to elevate the diplomatic rank came after a series of recent talks involving Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Beijing during an informal trilateral meeting.
Both sides agreed that upgrading diplomatic representation would help facilitate better communication and cooperation.
Ishaq Dar highlighted that Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are now on a positive trajectory following his visit to Kabul in April 2025. He expressed optimism that appointing an ambassador would further deepen collaboration in critical areas such as security, counterterrorism, trade, and economic development.
This step reflects Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining momentum in rebuilding trust and partnership with Afghanistan’s interim government.
Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are on positive trajectory after my very productive visit to Kabul with Pakistan delegation on 19th April 2025. To maintain this momentum, I am pleased to announce the decision of the Government of Pakistan to upgrade the level of its Chargé…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) May 30, 2025
Addressing Security Concerns and Trade Cooperation
One of the main points of contention between Islamabad and Kabul in recent years has been the issue of cross-border terrorism. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban-led administration of harboring and allowing Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants to operate from Afghan soil, allegations which Kabul denies. The upgrade to ambassadorial level is seen as a way to improve dialogue and resolve these sensitive security concerns more effectively.
Additionally, both countries have pledged to enhance trade facilitation and economic ties, aiming to benefit from increased cross-border commerce and regional connectivity.
The ambassadorial exchange also aligns with broader regional diplomatic efforts involving China and other key players to stabilize Afghanistan and promote peace in South Asia.
Pakistan’s move follows similar diplomatic recognition by countries like China, the United Arab Emirates, and Russia, which continue to maintain formal relations with the Taliban regime despite its lack of international recognition.
