ISLAMABAD — Pakistan announced Friday it has elevated its diplomatic representation in Afghanistan from Charge d’Affaires to Ambassador level, marking a significant step in improving relations between the two neighbors.
The decision, confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, comes as Islamabad and Kabul work to normalise ties after years of tension, largely over border skirmishes and Pakistan’s concerns about the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating from Afghan soil.
Dar, posting on X, stated: “Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are on a positive trajectory after my productive visit to Kabul on April 19, 2025. To maintain this momentum, I am pleased to announce the decision of the Government of Pakistan to upgrade its Chargé d’Affaires in Kabul to the level of Ambassador.”
The announcement follows a trilateral foreign ministers’ meeting between Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan earlier this month in Beijing, where both sides agreed to enhance diplomatic ties.
While no country has formally recognised the Taliban government since its takeover in 2021, nations like China, the UAE, and Russia maintain ambassadorial-level relations. Pakistan’s move signals a willingness to expand cooperation in areas such as security, counterterrorism, trade, and regional stability.
This latest development comes after months of diplomatic activity, including the March 2025 visit of Pakistan’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, and Ishaq Dar’s April visit, where both countries pledged to prevent the use of their territories for cross-border attacks and to boost trade co
operation.
