Pakistan, Afghanistan to Exchange Ambassadors

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to upgrade diplomatic relations by exchanging ambassadors, ending a period of limited engagement since the Taliban's takeover in 2021. This mutual move follows China-brokered trilateral talks in Beijing aimed at strengthening cooperation and addressing ongoing security concerns, including cross-border militant activity. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed hope that the exchange will foster deeper economic, security, counterterrorism, and trade cooperation. Afghanistan has reciprocated by announcing plans to appoint an ambassador to Islamabad, signaling a significant thaw in bilateral ties. Neither country has formally recognized the Taliban government, but the exchange mirrors similar diplomatic steps taken by China and the UAE. The normalization is viewed as a step toward enhanced engagement and regional stability.