ISLAMABAD – The Foreign Office of Pakistan has clarified that recent reports suggesting official Taliban govt recognition are speculative and premature.
During a weekly press briefing on Thursday, spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan has not made any decision on recognizing the Taliban administration in Afghanistan. He emphasized that media coverage implying otherwise is not based on official statements.
Khan highlighted ongoing concerns over terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil. He noted that these security issues are central to Pakistan’s discussions with Afghan authorities.
Efforts are underway to finalize a visit by Afghanistan’s foreign minister. However, Khan said no formal recognition of the Taliban regime is on the agenda. “Consultations are taking place, but no such decision has been made,” he added.
Russia became the first country earlier this month to formally recognize the Taliban government. No other nation, including Pakistan, has taken such a step. Still, countries like China, the UAE, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan have appointed ambassadors to Kabul.
Khan also spoke about the recent visit by Pakistan’s interior minister to Kabul. He described the visit as significant, noting that both sides discussed the handover of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) members and other militant concerns. These talks aim to strengthen cooperation in security and counterterrorism.
“There is visible improvement in bilateral relations,” said Khan.
He added that ongoing technical-level dialogues are helping build trust between the two neighbors.
On the matter of Afghan refugees, the spokesperson confirmed that the return deadline expired on June 30. Proposals for extending the deadline are under government review, but no final decision has been made.
Regarding regional matters, Khan addressed Pakistan’s ties with Iran and India. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for diplomacy in the Iran nuclear talks and stressed the need for dialogue with India, particularly on the Kashmir issue.
Despite growing global attention on recognition of the Taliban government, Pakistan maintains a cautious approach, balancing security concerns and diplomatic engagement.
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