The Taliban’s foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, says they have taken all necessary measures to bring an end to tensions in relations with Pakistan, but they still do not know exactly what Islamabad wants.
Muttaqi said that if the issue concerns the Durand line, the Taliban have made greater efforts than any previous Afghan government to ensure that the border is properly controlled.
His remarks come at a time when relations between Kabul and Islamabad have been facing serious tensions for a prolonged period.
Pakistan has repeatedly alleged that Afghan territory is being used for militant activities against Pakistan. The Taliban, however, reject these allegations and maintain that Afghan soil is not being used against any other country.
Speaking about relations between the two countries, Muttaqi said: “Sometimes, you cannot get into someone’s heart and mind to understand what they want.”
Trade and transit are another important aspect of relations between the two countries. Due to clashes and security incidents along the border, trade routes have been closed for extended periods, and problems over reopening some crossings for traders and ordinary people still persist.
Muttaqi says that the Taliban have taken, in his words, all necessary measures to address Pakistan’s concerns; however, they still do not have a clear understanding of Islamabad’s demands.
He said: “We have taken all the necessary measures, but sometimes you cannot get into someone’s heart and mind to know what they want.”
According to Muttaqi, Kabul continues to seek to understand the main reason behind Pakistan’s position, while at the same time, the Taliban administration is working to prevent any further deterioration in relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
