Sun Mar 23 11:04:56 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan and Afghanistan Hold Talks to Ease Strained Ties

**Kabul, Afghanistan (March 23, 2025)** – Pakistan and Afghanistan held talks in Kabul this weekend aimed at improving bilateral relations, which have been severely strained by disagreements over militancy, transit trade, and refugees. Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq, met with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi from March 21-23.

The discussions focused on resolving outstanding issues, including the movement of goods and people across the border, and addressing concerns about the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants operating from Afghan soil. Both sides stressed the importance of increased communication and cooperation. While Ambassador Sadiq assured Afghanistan of Pakistan’s commitment to addressing their concerns regarding transit routes and trade, the Afghan side urged Pakistan to show leniency regarding the impending deadline for Afghan refugees to leave Pakistan.

The two nations share a complex history, and despite initial hopes for improved ties following the Taliban takeover in 2021, tensions have escalated due to ongoing TTP attacks in Pakistan, coupled with the large Afghan refugee population in Pakistan and disagreements over trade routes. A recent closure of the key Torkham border crossing further highlighted these difficulties. Pakistan has issued a deadline of March 31st for Afghan refugees to leave voluntarily, after which mass deportations are planned.

While both countries expressed a commitment to improving relations and enhancing high-level engagement, significant challenges remain in resolving the deeply rooted issues that have strained their relationship. The success of these talks and the long-term improvement in bilateral relations remain uncertain.

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