By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a breaking development, diplomatic channels have been activated as Pakistan and Iran engage in talks to address the intricate situation in Afghanistan. Exclusive negotiations are set to kick off, featuring key representatives and high-profile delegations from both nations.
Hassan Kazemi Qomi, the special representative for Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi, has landed in Pakistan to participate in these crucial talks. A notable Iranian delegation accompanies him, boasting members pivotal to shaping policies concerning Afghanistan.
The talks are poised to tackle a spectrum of regional issues, as both Pakistan and Iran share vested interests in the stability of Afghanistan. Nevertheless, diplomatic sources hint at reservations regarding the utilization of Afghan territory by each country.
Security concerns take center stage in these discussions, with recent incidents involving terrorist groups drawing attention. Diplomatic sources reveal that the Afghan-based Jaish al-Adl employed Tajik militants in a recent attack in Kerman, Iran. These attackers reportedly entered Iran through the Afghan province of Nimroz.
Hassan Kazemi Qomi’s itinerary includes crucial meetings during his stay, notably with Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, and an anticipated meeting with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani.
Simultaneously, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, post the assumption of power, has witnessed an upswing in counter-terrorism operations in Pakistan. Diplomatic sources underscore the connection between these operations and assailants and weaponry originating from Afghan territory.
As the world watches these diplomatic maneuvers unfold, international stakeholders acknowledge the significance of collaborative efforts in navigating the complex landscape of Afghanistan.
