The Interim Minister of Foreign Affairs, Afghanistan, Mr. Amir Khan Muttaqi, received a delegation of Pakistani religious scholars in Kabul on August 16, 2023. This meeting was organized as part of the CRSS’s Beyond Boundaries project, which aimed to foster positive discourse between Pakistan and Afghanistan. During the visit, the delegation met several Afghan stakeholders, including the current Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan (IEA) regime representatives, former Afghan leaders, leading businesspersons, civil society representatives, and academicians.
- The Foreign Minister welcomed the guests and commenced by emphasizing the historical, cultural, and religious ties that unite Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- The Interim Minister highlighted the IEA’s commitment to bringing peace to Afghanistan. He expressed the belief that peace is essential for development and fostering people-to-people interactions. The primary objective of the IEA is to transform Afghanistan into a peaceful nation engaged in trade and development with all neighboring countries.
- Mr. Muttaqi shared encouraging news regarding Afghanistan’s security situation. He reported that on Independence Day (August 15, 2023), as well as during Eid and Muharram, no security incidents occurred in the country, indicating substantial progress in terms of security and stability.
- Presenting the economic figures, he stated that the IEA has been focused on revitalizing Afghanistan’s economy since assuming power. Measures have been taken to strengthen the national currency (Afghani), which has appreciated from 101 to 83 in comparison to 1 USD. Additionally, trade with regional and neighboring countries has also seen significant growth.
- The Minister reported the successful elimination of drug trafficking within Afghanistan. The government is actively focused on advancing the nation’s development.
- Minister Muttaqi affirmed the IEA’s commitment to addressing Pakistan’s concerns and extending cooperation. He expressed optimism about fostering a friendly relationship with Pakistan.
- In light of recent security incidents in Pakistan, Minister Muttaqi mentioned an official decree restricting Afghan nationals from participating in any conflict outside Afghanistan, highlighting the IEA’s role in ensuring regional peace and prosperity. Such actions have been declared un-Islamic and in disobedience to IEA orders, he further added.
- In closing, Minister Muttaqi urged the religious scholars to carry a message of peace and prosperity. He emphasized that the IEA’s objective is to promote not only peace and stability within Afghanistan but also throughout the broader region, recognizing that regional peace is integral to regional prosperity.
This meeting served as a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration between Afghanistan and Pakistan, fostering hopes of improved relations and regional stability.
Courtesy: www.crss.pk
