WEBDESK: In a significant development, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to elevate their diplomatic relations by upgrading their respective missions to ambassadorial level. This move marks a step toward normalizing ties after years of strained relations.
The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it has elevated its chargé d’affaires in Islamabad, Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, to the position of ambassador. This decision came shortly after Pakistan declared its intention to appoint an ambassador to Kabul, replacing its current chargé d’affaires, Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan welcomes the decision of the Government of Pakistan to upgrade the level of its diplomatic mission in Kabul to that of an ambassador,” the Afghan foreign ministry said on its X account late on Friday.
“In reciprocity, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will elevate the status of its mission in Islamabad from chargé d’affaires to ambassador,” the ministry added.
The reciprocal actions follow a trilateral meeting in Beijing, where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosted discussions with his Pakistani and Afghan counterparts. During the meeting, both Pakistan and Afghanistan expressed a clear willingness to enhance diplomatic relations and agreed in principle to exchange ambassadors as soon as possible.
China’s role as a mediator has been instrumental in facilitating this diplomatic progress. Senator Mushahid Hussain, chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute, acknowledged China’s efforts in bringing the two neighboring countries closer.
“China, as a bridge builder, is playing a historic role in bringing together Muslim countries,” said Senator Mushahid Hussain, chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute.
The elevation of diplomatic representation is expected to pave the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in various domains, including trade, security, and regional connectivity. Both countries have faced challenges in their relationship, particularly concerning security issues and border management. However, this development signals a mutual commitment to addressing these concerns through diplomatic engagement.
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