High-level diplomatic discussions unfolded as Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani met with his Afghan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi amidst a growing controversy surrounding the crackdown on illegal immigrants.
The Interim Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi was been informed by Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani about the challenges that currently pose a threat to peace in the region.
They convened in Tibet, China, where the foreign minister is on a visit to China to attend the Third Trans-Himalaya Forum for International Cooperation, scheduled to take place from October 4 to 5.
FM @JalilJilani met Afghan Acting FM Amir Khan Muttaqi in Tibet, China. FM reaffirmed 🇵🇰s commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties with Afg. Underscored that challenges confronting regional peace & stability be addressed in collaborative spirit thru collective strategies. pic.twitter.com/ACWnOXHKC2
— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) October 5, 2023
The meeting comes at a crucial time as tensions simmer between Pakistan and Afghanistan over Pakistan’s recent crackdown on illegal immigrants. This move has sparked controversy and raised concerns over the fate of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan.
In the midst of these challenges, both foreign ministers underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle shared security concerns. They agreed on the necessity of a unified approach to address the evolving security landscape in the region.
The talks delved into a range of issues, with particular attention given to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation between the two neighboring nations. Both sides acknowledged the significance of maintaining an open channel of communication.
The controversy surrounding the crackdown on illegal immigrants was addressed in depth. Pakistani officials highlighted the need for proper documentation and the regularization of Afghan nationals living in Pakistan to ensure that law and order are maintained.
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The Afghan Foreign Minister expressed his concerns regarding the well-being of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. He stressed the importance of safeguarding their rights and ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “The FM reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties with Afg[hanistan].”
FM @JalilJilani met 🇨🇳 FM Wang Yi in Tibet, China. Emphasizing positive trajectory of bilateral ties, they reaffirmed commitment to #CPEC & pledged to enhance high-level exchanges and strategic communication for continued cooperation. pic.twitter.com/tcPGCqZDH4
— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) October 5, 2023
With the security situation in the region evolving, both foreign ministers acknowledged the need for a collaborative approach to tackle security challenges effectively. They discussed the importance of intelligence-sharing and joint efforts to combat terrorism.
Despite the challenges posed by the immigration crackdown, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic means. The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to work together to find solutions to the issues at hand.