Pakistan Joins Moscow Format Talks as Afghanistan Becomes Full Member

Pakistan's Special Representative on Afghanistan, Muhammad Sadiq Khan, participated in high-level diplomatic talks in Moscow with representatives from Russia, China, and Iran to discuss regional security and the situation in Afghanistan ahead of the 17th Moscow Format consultations. The meeting emphasized the need for enhanced regional cooperation, increased humanitarian aid for Afghanistan, and opposition to foreign military bases on Afghan soil. Pakistan highlighted the issue of terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan and called for dismantling recruitment, arms supply, and funding networks linked to cross-border militancy. For the first time, Afghanistan was formally included as a full member of the Moscow Format, with its acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, expected to attend, marking a milestone in regional engagement for Afghan peace and stability. The Moscow Format, established in 2017, includes 11 countries focused on promoting peace, security, and development in Afghanistan through dialogue and cooperative efforts. These diplomatic efforts aim to address terrorism, drug trafficking, refugee issues, and strengthen security mechanisms to foster lasting stability in the region.