ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Afghanistan concluded their first round of high-level talks today, reporting progress on critical issues including regional security, trade, and bilateral relations.
Held at Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, the Additional Secretary-level talks saw both nations agree that terrorism is a major threat to regional peace and development. They stressed the need for cooperation to eliminate it. Pakistan specifically called for “effective measures” against terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.
Pakistan reviewed measures to facilitate Afghan transit trade, including suspending a 10% fee, relaxing insurance guarantees, and reducing scanning processes.
Pakistan informed the Afghan delegation that it has issued over 500,000 visas to Afghan citizens for various purposes since January 2024.
Matters related to the return of Afghan citizens from Pakistan were discussed.
Both sides agreed to finalize the framework agreement for the crucial Pakistan-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan (PAK-AF-UZ) Railway project “at the earliest,” recognizing its importance for regional development and prosperity.
Following the talks, the head of the Afghan delegation, Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, met with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary, Amina Baloch. Baloch emphasized that regular contacts strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to regional peace, stability, and development.
The next round of talks will be scheduled based on mutual consultations.
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