Pakistan Elevates Kabul Mission to Ambassadorial Level

Pakistan Elevates Kabul Mission to Ambassadorial Level

Pakistan Elevates Kabul Mission to Ambassadorial Level

Pakistan has decided to upgrade its diplomatic representation in Kabul from a chargé d’affaires to a full ambassador. This move comes as part of efforts to strengthen ties between the neighboring nations, which have experienced periods of instability in recent years.

Pakistan Flag Blend Illustration

Positive Developments Following Recent Diplomatic Engagements

Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, noted that relations with Afghanistan are on an upward trajectory following his productive visit to Kabul on April 19, 2025. He announced the decision to elevate the level of Pakistan’s diplomatic presence, a development that Dar believes will pave the way for deeper engagement across economic, security, counterterrorism, and trade sectors.

During his visit, Dar spoke with Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan’s interim foreign minister, highlighting the shared commitment to improving bilateral cooperation. Pakistan’s special representative to Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, added that the new ambassadorial role would enhance collaborative initiatives, benefiting both peoples and contributing to regional stability.

Context and Evolving Regional Dynamics

Following the return of the Afghan Taliban to power in Kabul in August 2021 after the withdrawal of U.S.-led forces, several countries have maintained a pragmatic relationship with the Islamic Emirate while not formally recognizing the regime. This group includes Pakistan, Russia, China, and India, all of which continue to engage with the Afghan government in various capacities.

Historical Tensions and Renewed Commitments

Past challenges, such as cross-border militancy, allegations of Afghan support for militant groups, and Pakistan’s decision to repatriate nearly one million Afghan refugees, have strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul. The recent decision to appoint a full ambassador reflects a mutual desire to overcome these difficulties and revive a historically strong connection.

The change was also discussed during a recent informal trilateral meeting hosted by Beijing, where top diplomats from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China agreed on the importance of appointing full ambassadors promptly. Additionally, there are plans to extend a major economic partnership—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor—to include Afghanistan, further reinforcing the commitment to regional development.

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