KABUL — Taliban said Friday that they will raise the rank of their diplomatic representative in Islamabad to ambassador, following Pakistan’s decision to upgrade its chargé d’affaires in Kabul to ambassadorial level.
In a statement, the Taliban’s Foreign Ministry welcomed Islamabad’s move and described it as “a positive step” toward strengthening bilateral ties.
“Elevating the level of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan will pave the way for broader cooperation in many areas,” the statement said.
The announcement came shortly after Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Ishaq Dar, said his government had decided to appoint an ambassador to Kabul — a post left vacant since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.
Dar said the decision followed what he described as a “very productive visit” to Kabul in April, during which he led a high-level delegation.
“To maintain this positive momentum, I am pleased to announce Pakistan’s decision to elevate its diplomatic representation in Kabul,” Dar said. “This step will enhance engagement and deepen cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan in areas such as the economy, security, counterterrorism and trade.”
The exchange of diplomatic upgrades signals a cautious thaw in relations between the two neighbors, which have often been strained by cross-border militancy and differing approaches to security and governance.
