Pakistan’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, has held detailed discussions with the European Union’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Gilles Bertrand, focusing on terrorism-related threats, regional security dynamics, and the broader political outlook in Afghanistan and its surrounding region.
In remarks shared on Thursday, April 16, the Pakistani envoy stated that the meeting also covered avenues for expanding bilateral relations and enhancing trade cooperation between Pakistan and the European Union. Both sides emphasized the importance of sustained and coordinated diplomatic engagement to address shared challenges and promote regional stability.
According to the envoy, the discussions placed particular emphasis on evolving security concerns emanating from Afghanistan, including terrorism-related risks and their implications for regional peace and stability. The dialogue underscored the need for continued cooperation in countering extremist threats and improving regional coordination mechanisms.
Earlier, on February 26, the Pakistani envoy had also reported a telephonic conversation with EU Special Envoy Gilles Bertrand, during which issues related to human rights and terrorism threats linked to Afghanistan were discussed. However, no further official details of that exchange were disclosed.
In parallel diplomatic engagements, Mohammad Sadiq has also previously held talks with Mohammad Reza Bahrami, Iran’s Director General for South Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Those discussions focused on counterterrorism cooperation and regional security coordination, reflecting Pakistan’s ongoing multi-track diplomatic outreach on Afghanistan-related challenges.
These developments come amid continuing tensions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban authorities. Despite multiple rounds of engagement, including the latest talks held in Urumqi, China, no substantive breakthrough has been achieved in addressing outstanding disputes between the two sides.
Pakistani officials have consistently raised concerns regarding the presence of militant groups operating from Afghan territory, alleging that elements linked to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) are being sheltered inside Afghanistan. The Afghan Taliban have denied these allegations.
The recent diplomatic engagements reflect an ongoing effort by Pakistan to pursue coordinated regional and international dialogue aimed at addressing security threats, strengthening economic cooperation, and promoting long-term stability in Afghanistan and the wider region.
