ISLAMABAD: Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Muttaqi has stressed the need for strengthening the Pakistan-Afghanistan dialogue, particularly on issues of mutual concern.
Muttaqi met with a delegation of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), which visited Afghanistan from August 21-23, 2023, a statement issued here on Thursday said.
During the meeting, Acting Foreign Minister Muttaqi highlighted the notable progress registered in bilateral trade and spoke about the need for increasing focus on regional trade and connectivity.
The delegation, led by ISSI Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, visited Afghanistan at the invitation of the Centre for Strategic Studies (CSS), Kabul. During the visit, the delegation held several interactions.
The statement said that that Muttaqi apprised the delegation of the progress achieved under the interim Afghan government on improving security and economy, controlling poppy cultivation and addressing corruption.
On the occasion, Ambassador Mahmood spoke about the recent positive developments in enhancing the bilateral trade. He underscored the urgency of addressing matters related to border security and counter-terrorism.
He said that a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan would be best suited to advance the common interests of trade and connectivity through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other mega projects.
The delegation also participated in a ‘Bilateral Dialogue’ with the CSS, led by its Director General Waliullah Shaheen. On the occasion, Mahmood called for placing the bilateral relationship on a sounder basis.
He also stressed the need for addressing security concerns, strengthening efforts for a robust economic partnership, and promoting the agenda of regional connectivity and economic integration.
Shaheen, meanwhile, said that think-tanks like CSS and ISSI could help promote a new approach to deal with sensitive matters and develop bilateral cooperation into a complimentary relationship.
Ambassador Mahmood also delivered a lecture at the Afghan foreign ministry’s Institute of Diplomacy. The lecture focused on the evolving geopolitical environment at the global and regional levels.
He noted several key developments in the post-August 2021 Afghanistan. He also highlighted international expectations, regarding inclusivity, women’s rights and girls’ education, and effective counter-terrorism action.
Mahmood said that both countries suffered from trans-national terrorism, which warranted mutual cooperation and a collective response.
He urged a broader framework of institutional engagement, which entailed regular consultations and identified pathways for cooperation in other areas.
