A confidential letter from the Taliban Embassy in Pakistan, leaked by TalibLeaks, reveals that the Taliban ambassador in Islamabad has reported Pakistan’s concerns regarding the alleged use of US weapons in attacks launched from Afghan soil.
The letter, dated 5 April 2024, was sent by Sardar Ahmad Shakib to the Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and highlights the diplomatic tensions and challenges in Pakistan-Taliban relations.
Shakib stated that Pakistan is convinced that American weapons have been used in attacks originating from Afghanistan, further straining relations between the two countries. The document also outlines ongoing diplomatic disputes, particularly Pakistan’s alleged violations of Afghan airspace and its reported facilitation of U.S. reconnaissance flights over Afghanistan.
According to the letter, Pakistan has intensified its claims regarding the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan, alleging that the Taliban administration provides moral support to the group. Pakistani officials reportedly believe that senior TTP leaders have established safe havens in Afghan territory.
The leaked document further indicates Pakistan’s growing dissatisfaction with improving Taliban-India relations, warning that direct engagement between the Taliban and New Delhi could diminish Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan, leading to further deterioration in ties between Islamabad and the Taliban administration.
The report also sheds light on the politicisation of trade relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It states that trade and economic exchanges between the two countries have been disrupted due to the lack of a modern legal framework, causing financial strain on Afghan traders. The document asserts that this politicisation has led to increased costs, including higher taxes, import restrictions, and rising transportation expenses.
The letter emphasises that resolving border violations and diplomatic tensions requires sustained engagement and mutual cooperation from both sides. In his communication with the Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Shakib urged the Taliban leadership to engage constructively with Pakistan to address ongoing disputes and stabilise bilateral relations.
