Pakistan Urges Inclusive Political Process in Afghanistan

DID Press: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stressed the need for continued international attention to Afghanistan and called for steps to facilitate the country’s integration into the international community.

Speaking at a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group on Afghanistan in New York, Dar said Afghanistan needs an inclusive political process, compliance with international obligations, and an environment conducive to regional and global engagement to achieve stability.

Dar urged the Taliban to take “specific and verifiable” measures to prevent Afghanistan territory from being used against neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan.

He also called for lifting of restrictions on women and girls, respect for citizens’ fundamental freedoms, and broader opportunities for political participation in Afghanistan.

“We can help Afghanistan, and we must help Afghanistan integrate into the international community,” Dar said.

The Pakistani foreign minister also welcomed mediation and diplomatic efforts by Qatar, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia aimed at encouraging the Taliban to pursue peaceful solutions. He further emphasized the need for continued humanitarian and economic assistance to Afghanistan.

The remarks come as relations between Kabul and Islamabad have remained strained over the past year, amid border tensions and disagreements over the alleged presence and activities of armed groups operating from Afghan territory.