Islamabad and Kabul have seen a significant thaw in their relationship following a crackdown by the Afghan interim government on groups targeting Pakistan. This action, which included the arrest of Afghan nationals involved in cross-border terrorism, has led to increased engagement between the two nations.

According to a report in The Express Tribune, a key factor in the improved relations was the Afghan Taliban’s apparent willingness to address Pakistan’s concerns regarding the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups operating from Afghan soil. This followed a visit by a Pakistani delegation, led by Special Representative Muhammad Sadiq in March, where the Taliban briefed them on steps taken to curb cross-border attacks. The subsequent arrest of numerous Afghans involved with the TTP, coupled with a decrease in suicide attacks in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, further strengthened this positive trend.

Further progress was made with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Kabul in April—the first by a Pakistani foreign minister in three years. This resulted in agreements, including a pledge from Kabul to prevent the use of Afghan territory against Pakistan, and reciprocal concessions from Pakistan regarding Afghan trade. The Afghan government’s apprehension of individuals facilitating the infiltration of over 70 terrorists near the Pakistan border further bolstered confidence.

The improved relationship culminated in a trilateral meeting in Beijing on May 21st, hosted by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed in principle to exchange ambassadors, marking a significant step towards normalizing diplomatic relations.