Pakistan and Afghanistan share a complex relationship that encompasses both political and economic dimensions. The two countries have historically had a mix of cooperation and tensions, influenced by various factors including security concerns, border disputes, and the situation in Afghanistan.
Political Cooperation:
- Bilateral Dialogue: Pakistan and Afghanistan have engaged in regular bilateral dialogues and high-level visits to discuss issues of mutual concern and enhance cooperation.
- Peace Process in Afghanistan: Pakistan has played a role in facilitating peace talks and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. It has hosted and supported negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban.
Economic Cooperation:
- Trade and Transit: Pakistan and Afghanistan have economic ties, including trade and transit agreements. They have established border crossings and trade routes to facilitate the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
- Energy Cooperation: Pakistan and Afghanistan have explored the potential for energy cooperation, including projects like the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, which aims to transport natural gas from Turkmenistan to South Asia.
Challenges and Tensions:
- Security Concerns: Both countries have faced security challenges, including cross-border militancy and terrorism. There have been accusations and counter-accusations of harboring militant groups.
- Border Management: Issues related to the Durand Line, the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, have been a longstanding point of contention between the two countries.
- Refugees and Migration: Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees over several decades, which has posed economic and social challenges.
the cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan can vary over time due to changing political dynamics and regional circumstances.
According to the Afghan Foreign Minister of Taliban News Release: ”The IEA political and commercial delegation visit to Pakistan led by the Afghan Foreign Minister was called positive, and the growth of political and economic cooperation was also followed up.”
”Also, with the emphasis of the Afghan Foreign Minister on facilitating movement of the Afghan nationals, the meeting led to an agreement on establishing a joint committee between the Embassy of Pakistan and the MoFA-Directorate of Consular Affairs.”
”The Pakistani Ambassador requested an extension of the visa period for Pakistani students who travel to Afghanistan to study where he was assured of providing facilities thereof.”
