KABUL: In a crucial diplomatic development, Afghanistan Prime Minister Mullah Hasan Akhund conveyed to the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, that Kabul harbors no ill intentions towards Pakistan or any other nation. The statement was made during a meeting with an 11-member JUI-F delegation, marking the party’s first visit to Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed control in 2021.
The Afghan Premier emphasized that the “Islamic Emirate will not allow anyone to pose a threat to any country,” as reported in a statement issued by government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid. Mullah Hasan acknowledged the significant role of religious scholars in resolving issues and dispelling misunderstandings between Islamabad and Kabul.
During the discussions, the Taliban leader called for a cessation of what he labeled as Pakistan’s “brutal” policy towards Afghan refugees, stating that such behavior fosters mistrust rather than solving problems. The meeting, attended by Afghan acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, also addressed trade and economic concerns, with Muttaqi stressing that these issues should not be sacrificed for political purposes.
JUI-F Chief Fazlur Rehman praised the victory of the Islamic Emirate against the invasion, expressing hope for the strengthening of the Islamic system in Afghanistan. His visit aimed to dispel misunderstandings and foster cooperation between the two countries in politics, economy, trade, and mutual development.
Against a backdrop of strained Pakistan-Afghanistan relations due to an increase in terrorist attacks, particularly claimed by the Tehreek-i-Taliban, the meeting highlighted the need for joint efforts to address persistent challenges in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Fazlur Rehman emphasized dialogue as the means to resolve differences, urging both nations to capitalize on commonalities for mutual benefit.
As relations face challenges, the Afghan Deputy Prime Minister Maulvi Abdul Kabir welcomed the JUI-F delegation, expressing gratitude to Pakistan for hosting Afghan refugees and supporting Afghans during past conflicts. He reassured the delegation of Afghanistan’s commitment to good relations based on mutual respect and emphasized the importance of discussing realities instead of relying on claims and media propaganda. Kabir also urged an end to the mistreatment and forced deportation of Afghan refugees, conveying Afghanistan’s message of desiring regional peace and stability without allowing its soil to be used against any nation.
