Despite Pakistan’s persistent efforts, the Afghan Taliban has once again shown no flexibility on the issue of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Kabul has outright rejected Islamabad’s request to take strict action against TTP militants operating from Afghan soil.
While the Pakistani government has claimed that the recent visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Afghanistan was “successful,” citing positive discussions on trade, diplomatic, and political matters, the Taliban’s rigid stance on the TTP issue has overshadowed those diplomatic gains.
Pakistan has long accused the TTP of using Afghan territory to launch attacks, allegedly with the tacit support of the Afghan Taliban. Over the past few years, TTP attacks have become a growing security concern for Pakistan. In response, Islamabad has repeatedly engaged Kabul in dialogue and even conducted cross-border airstrikes, some of which have led to civilian casualties—further straining bilateral ties.
Diplomatic Dialogue Shows Glimmers of Progress, But Trust Deficit Remains
According to The Express Tribune, Ishaq Dar’s visit aimed to reduce diplomatic tensions, improve trade ties, facilitate the return of Afghan refugees, and curb cross-border TTP activities. During the talks, Dar reportedly acknowledged that despite the “brotherly” nature of the relationship, it is riddled with bitterness. Key issues like trade imbalance, border skirmishes, and the forced expulsion of Afghan refugees have deepened Kabul’s dissatisfaction with Islamabad.
Beyond the TTP issue, several points of friction remain between the two nations:
- The ongoing dispute over the Durand Line and fencing
- Cross-border military actions
- Repeated closure of border checkpoints
- Harsh policies targeting Afghan refugees
- Most critically, accusations of Pakistan supporting ISIS
These factors have created a significant trust deficit between the two neighbors.
On the economic front, however, there is a silver lining. Pakistan has reportedly agreed to remove additional duties on 14–16 categories of Afghan transit goods, which Afghan trade officials believe will boost commerce between the two countries. One analyst noted, “Ishaq Dar showed strong command over economic issues and scored a diplomatic win with his negotiation strategy.”
While Dar’s visit may have helped melt some diplomatic ice, without a clear consensus on the TTP and border security, long-term stability in relations seems unlikely. The Taliban’s latest response sends a clear message to Pakistan — mere dialogue won’t suffice; trust and transparency are equally essential.
