KABUL/ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Kabul on Sunday for a day-long official visit, marking another step toward improving strained ties between the two neighboring nations. Upon landing at Kabul airport, Naqvi was welcomed by Afghan Interim Deputy Interior Minister Mohammad Nabi Omari and senior officials from Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry.
Key Meetings on Security & Diplomacy
Naqvi is scheduled to hold talks with his Afghan counterpart, Sirajuddin Haqqani, with discussions expected to focus on counter-terrorism, border management, and bilateral cooperation. The visit comes shortly after both countries elevated their diplomatic representation from chargé d’affaires to full ambassadors, signaling a gradual normalization of relations.
Regional Connectivity & Economic Prospects
The trip follows recent efforts to enhance regional trade, including the signing of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (UAP) Railway Project—a major infrastructure initiative aimed at linking Central Asia with Pakistani seaports. Additionally, the two nations recently held high-level talks under the Additional Secretary-Level Mechanism, underscoring mutual interest in stabilizing ties.
Challenges Ahead
Despite diplomatic progress, security remains a contentious issue, with Pakistan urging Kabul to prevent militant groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) from operating across the border. The 2,500-km porous frontier continues to be a focal point for both trade and security concerns. As dialogue resumes, the world watches to see if these engagements translate into tangible peace and economic gains for the region.