Afghanistan Peace CampaignResponding to Russia’s decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate, Dar said that the move was made independently and based on Russia’s national interests.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, says that the appropriate time to recognize Afghanistan’s interim government has not yet arrived.
Responding to Russia’s decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Dar said that the move was made independently and based on Russia’s national interests.
He remarked: “Action of Russia is obviously a sovereign country. We can’t say that it should be done or should not be done. It is their sovereign right to decide, and they have done it. We haven’t done it. That means we do not feel it appropriate. At this stage, we have upgraded the charge d’affaires to ambassadorship in May, 30th of May.”
Speaking at the Atlantic Council meeting in Washington, Dar emphasized that Islamabad seeks a stable, inclusive, and sovereign Afghanistan.
“A stable Afghanistan is in our vital interest. We want an Afghanistan that is peaceful, inclusive and sovereign. However, the threat of terrorism from Afghan soil is real, and the biggest threat to Pakistan’s soil,” he said.
Dar also highlighted the deep cultural and historical ties between the two countries and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to cooperate fully with Afghanistan.
He once again urged the interim government to uphold its commitments in the fight against terrorism.
“We want to fully cooperate with the neighbour. We have centuries old relationship. We have almost same culture. So, the only thing is that their soil should not be allowed against any country but to talk of Pakistan for terrorist activities. This is the only ask.” he said.
These remarks come as relations between Kabul and Islamabad have recently entered a new phase, with the Afghan Acting Foreign Minister expected to visit Islamabad within a week.