Pakistan and Afghanistan Seek to Improve Relations

Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan's newly appointed special representative for Afghanistan, has led a delegation to Kabul to enhance bilateral relations following a year-long pause in high-level talks due to terrorism allegations, particularly concerning the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The discussions with Taliban officials, including Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, focused on improving diplomatic, economic, and transit relations, amidst ongoing tensions over border security and militant activities. Sadiq expressed a commitment to fostering 'brotherly relations' and addressing mutual concerns through dialogue, as both nations seek to stabilize their interactions. Concurrently, Japan and the UNDP have launched a program aimed at supporting alternative livelihoods for vulnerable communities in Afghanistan, emphasizing women's roles in economic resilience. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of climate change and the poppy cultivation ban in the region. The outcomes of Sadiq's visit and the new livelihood program reflect an interconnected approach to addressing security and economic challenges in Afghanistan and Pakistan.