ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan and Afghanistan have announced the appointment of new ambassadors, marking a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries.
Pakistan Elevates Diplomatic Representation
Pakistan has elevated its diplomatic mission in Kabul by appointing Obaidur Rehman Nizamani, previously serving as chargé d’affaires, to the rank of ambassador. This move follows a trilateral meeting in Beijing earlier this week, where Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and China’s top diplomat to discuss regional cooperation and bilateral relations.
Foreign Minister Dar expressed optimism about the development, stating that the decision reflects Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Afghanistan and promoting regional stability. He emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to address mutual challenges.
Afghanistan’s Reciprocal Appointment
In a reciprocal gesture, Afghanistan has confirmed the appointment of its ambassador to Islamabad. While the name of the newly appointed ambassador has not been officially disclosed, diplomatic sources suggest that Maulvi Sardar Ahmad Shakib, currently the Taliban’s top representative in Pakistan, could be elevated to the ambassadorial rank. 
The Afghan Foreign Ministry welcomed Pakistan’s decision, viewing it as a positive step towards enhancing diplomatic engagement and cooperation between the two countries. A deputy spokesperson for the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry stated that the elevation of diplomatic relations paves the way for expanded cooperation in various areas.
Upcoming High-Level Visit
Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is scheduled to visit Islamabad soon for key talks, signaling a possible reset in bilateral relations. The visit is expected to focus on a range of bilateral issues, including trade, security, and regional cooperation. Political analysts view this development as crucial for improving Afghanistan-Pakistan relations, which have been strained over the past four years due to border clashes, refugee deportations, and security concerns.
Analysts’ Perspectives
Political analysts consider these developments significant for the future of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations. Syed Abdullah Sadiq, a political analyst, noted that while Afghanistan has yet to gain formal recognition from any country, “being neighbors and Muslim countries, issues can be resolved through political dialogue based on historical relations.” Another analyst, Khalil Nadeem, underscored Pakistan’s strategic imperative to engage with Afghanistan, stating, “Afghanistan maintains strong ties with India, the former Soviet states, and Arab countries. Pakistan needs to build good relations with Kabul to secure its own regional interests.” 
This diplomatic thaw is seen as a positive development in the context of regional cooperation and stability, with both nations taking steps to address longstanding issues and enhance bilateral cooperation.
