Istanbul, June 22, 2025: Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday called for deeper and more practical cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan during a bilateral meeting with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 51st session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), currently underway in Istanbul.
According to a statement released after the meeting, Muttaqi highlighted the improving diplomatic engagement between Kabul and Islamabad and expressed hope that the relationship would evolve into stronger, action-oriented collaboration, particularly in areas of trade, transit, and infrastructure.
“We are optimistic that growing diplomatic ties between the two countries will pave the way for practical and strategic cooperation,” said Muttaqi, emphasizing Afghanistan’s readiness to engage in joint initiatives.
In response, Foreign Minister Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and underscored the need for tangible progress on major regional projects, including the long-delayed Trans-Afghan railway line. The railway, once completed, is expected to significantly boost regional connectivity and trade between Central and South Asia.
The two sides also exchanged views on the upcoming trilateral meeting of foreign ministers from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China, scheduled to be held in Kabul. The planned talks are seen as part of broader efforts to stabilize the region and advance economic integration.
The meeting reflects both countries’ recognition of shared economic and security interests, despite longstanding challenges in their bilateral relationship.
