Islamabad, Kabul: July 19, 2021 (TDI): Today, Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, talked on phone with Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Atmar inquired about the ongoing investigation about the kidnapping of the Afghan ambassador’s daughter in Islamabad. He also demonstrated grave concern over the remarks of the Interior Minister of Pakistan, Sheikh Rasheed.
According to Atmar, unprofessional and early judgments not only harm bilateral ties but also the legitimacy of ongoing investigation. He stated that Afghanistan is also willing to work with Pakistan in the further investigation to hold the offenders accountable. This will also ensure the future safety of Afghan diplomats in Pakistan. It is reported that the Afghan government is recalling its ambassador and diplomats from Pakistan due to security concerns. In this regard, a delegation is slated to visit Pakistan to further discuss the withdrawal of ambassadors and diplomats of Afghanistan.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed sincere grief and sympathy. He went on to say that the investigation will be completed shortly and that its execution will be transparent under the supervision of Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan. He assured Atmar regarding Pakistan’s efforts to secure Afghanistan’s ambassadors and diplomats. Furthermore, he expressed hope that Afghanistan would reevaluate its decision regarding the withdrawal of diplomats.
Given Pakistan’s important role as a facilitator in the overall peace process, it is important to consider how this will affect dynamics between Pakistan and Afghanistan and future peace talks of the Afghan government and Taliban.
