Afghanistan’s interim interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani has expressed gratitude to Pakistani religious leaders for showing goodwill towards Afghanistan. He delivered these remarks during a public event in Kabul. His statement included appreciation for Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl and other prominent scholars.
Haqqani said positive intentions from regional actors help reduce mistrust and promote cooperation. He welcomed voices that encourage dialogue instead of confrontation. According to him, such gestures create space for stability and mutual understanding.
Context of Religious Outreach
His comments followed a December 23 conference where Pakistani religious scholars discussed regional tensions. During that gathering, Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticised Pakistan’s military strikes in Afghanistan and Iran. He also opposed the forced deportation of Afghan refugees.
Fazlur Rehman argued that refugee issues should be resolved through cooperation rather than expulsion. He stressed that Afghans had lived in Pakistan for decades. He urged both countries to maintain friendly and respectful relations.
A declaration issued at the conference warned that rising tensions benefit hostile forces. It called on Islamabad and Kabul to resolve disputes through dialogue. Haqqani referred to this event directly in his speech.
Praise for Pakistani Religious Figures
Haqqani specifically thanked Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mufti Taqi Usmani for their supportive remarks. He said their goodwill statements were deeply appreciated in Afghanistan. He also acknowledged positive comments from Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
He stated that Afghanistan welcomes good interaction and constructive relations between nations. He added that closer ties benefit regional peace. According to Haqqani, Afghanistan holds no ill intentions toward any country.
Afghanistan’s Message on Peace and Reconstruction
Haqqani emphasised Afghanistan’s commitment to peace, security, and regional stability. He assured neighbours that Afghan soil would not be used to harm others. He said the Afghan people seek cooperation, not conflict.
He further stated that Afghanistan has entered a reconstruction phase. He called on other countries to become partners in development. He urged them to abandon negative perceptions and mistrust.
Similar Views From Afghan Foreign Minister
Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi echoed similar sentiments at a separate ceremony. He praised Pakistani scholars for advising their government wisely. He said religious leaders have historically promoted reform and peace.
Muttaqi expressed hope that scholars would continue fostering brotherhood and closeness. He said Afghanistan respects their role in guiding societies.
Background of Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain strained due to cross-border militancy concerns. Pakistan has repeatedly demanded action against the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. Border clashes earlier triggered diplomatic engagement.
Talks in Doha, Istanbul, and mediation by Turkiye and Qatar failed to resolve core differences. Eventually, dialogue entered an indefinite pause. Following this breakdown, trade ties were suspended by Afghanistan. Pakistan had already closed border trade earlier.
