Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has welcomed Pakistan’s decision to restore full diplomatic relations with Taliban, calling it a “very positive development” for ties between the two neighbours.
The move, announced by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry on Friday, will elevate Islamabad’s diplomatic representation in Kabul from chargé d’affaires to ambassador. The Taliban’s foreign ministry said it would reciprocate by appointing an ambassador to Pakistan.
The announcement follows a phone call between Muttaqi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. According to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry on Sunday, the two sides also stressed the need for close cooperation on the Uzbekistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan railway project.
Dar and Muttaqi also reviewed progress on agreements reached during Dar’s visit to Kabul on April 19. Both ministers underscored the importance of building trust and maintaining regular diplomatic engagement.
Pakistan’s move comes after months of strained relations with Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers. Islamabad has accused the Taliban of harbouring militants from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, a charge the Taliban denies. International reports, however, have found evidence of TTP fighters operating from Afghan soil.
Dar said Islamabad’s relations with the Taliban are now on a “positive trajectory” following his recent visit.
