In a significant diplomatic development, the Afghan Taliban have reportedly signalled a shift in their approach toward the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as noted by a Pakistani delegation that recently visited Kabul. The visit marks a potential turning point in relations between the two countries, which have been strained over persistent cross-border security concerns.
According to The Express Tribune, members of the Pakistani delegation observed a noticeable change in the Afghan Taliban’s attitude, describing their response as more “serious” and “positive” toward Islamabad’s security demands. One delegate stated, “Everyone in the delegation noted a change in the Afghan Taliban’s stance towards the TTP.”
Although the delegation refrained from disclosing any specific actions taken by the Taliban, they expressed cautious optimism, noting that Taliban officials had acknowledged Pakistan’s concerns and promised to act accordingly. “Let’s see the outcome of those steps in the coming days,” said an official.
This apparent shift is attributed to several factors, including Afghanistan’s worsening economic crisis, the halt in U.S. aid, and diplomatic pressure from Pakistan.
The high-level visit took place on April 16, with meetings involving top Taliban leaders, including acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Deputy Defence Minister Mullah Abdul Qayyum Zakir. Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, led the delegation and took part in the 7th round of the Afghanistan–Pakistan Joint Coordination Committee.
Following the meetings, Sadiq stated that the discussions addressed “sensitive and strategic matters” and stressed the importance of regular dialogue to deescalate tensions and build mutual understanding. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasised that both sides had agreed to avoid provocative rhetoric and public blame games.
This was the first meeting of the Joint Coordination Committee in over 15 months. The last round in Islamabad had been suspended amid tensions over the Taliban’s alleged sheltering of TTP militants, a group responsible for numerous attacks within Pakistan. Pakistan has long urged the Taliban to take decisive action to prevent the TTP, designated as a terrorist organisation, from operating freely in Afghan territory.
Coinciding with this visit, a Taliban delegation led by Commerce Minister Noor-ud-Din Azizi was in Islamabad to discuss trade cooperation, refugee issues, and the future of the Afghanistan–Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement.
While it remains to be seen whether these diplomatic engagements will result in concrete action, the renewed communication signals a thaw in bilateral relations and a potential pathway to joint security cooperation in the region.
