Afghan FM Visit to Islamabad Delayed Over Travel Ban

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The planned visit of Afghanistan’s Interim Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, to Pakistan was unexpectedly postponed due to what officials referred to as a “technical issue.” The visit, initially set to begin on August 4, was seen as a pivotal moment to reset diplomatic ties between Islamabad and Kabul.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the delay is likely linked to the United Nations Security Council’s travel restrictions on Taliban officials. However, both governments are reportedly working together to resolve the issue, and a rescheduled visit is expected soon.

The visit was considered long overdue amid efforts by both nations to de-escalate tensions that have strained relations in recent months. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has already made two visits to Kabul since April, signaling a renewed commitment to bilateral diplomacy.

One of the central concerns driving these engagements has been the presence of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups operating across the border. According to Pakistani officials, there has been limited but notable cooperation from the Taliban government in addressing these threats. Measures reportedly include discouraging Afghan nationals from aligning with the TTP and initiating action against those providing logistical support.

In a further sign of improving relations, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to elevate their diplomatic missions to ambassadorial status, an important step after years of tense and sometimes fractured ties.

Muttaqi’s rescheduled visit would mark his first trip to Islamabad since May 2023, when he took part in a trilateral dialogue with the foreign ministers of Pakistan and China. Diplomatic sources also credit Beijing with playing a quiet but influential role in facilitating talks between the two neighbors.

Although the Afghan administration has publicly denied the presence of banned groups like the TTP within its borders, it has reportedly acknowledged internal limitations on enforcement. Nevertheless, officials in Islamabad believe that persistent diplomatic engagement is yielding progress.

Pakistani authorities have reiterated that they will continue urging the Taliban government to take more decisive steps against extremist factions. In return, both Pakistan and China have expressed readiness to support Afghanistan’s economic and diplomatic stability.

With regional cooperation appearing to gain traction, officials remain optimistic that a new date for Muttaqi’s visit will soon be announced, underscoring a shared interest in regional peace and cross-border security.