ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq Khan after holding what he termed a “constructive meeting” with Afghanistan’s Commerce Minister Nooruddin Aziz reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to developing mutually-beneficial ties with the “brotherly country”.
During the discussions, both sides emphasised on finalising the Afghanistan-Pakistan Trade and Transit Agreement (APTTA) and the issue of Cross-Stuffing. The delegation of Pakistan agreed to designate a specific place for transit of Afghanistan’s goods, said an Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s statement.
Afghan’s ministry’s statement
The Commerce Ministry’s statement said, during the meeting, discussions were held regarding facilitating trade and transit between the two countries. Additionally, the removal of trade and transit barriers by Pakistan, providing further bank guarantee facilities, and reduction of two per cent tax (cess) were also addressed during discussions.
Both sides agreed to collaborate in accordance with the international trade standards. Decisions were made regarding preferential trade, as per which, the exchange of four items from Afghanistan and three items from Pakistan would be allowed based on Afghanistan’s export season, it said.
Discussion was made on the development of Torkham and Spin Boldak border crossings, the statement added.
Constructive meeting
Ambassador Sadiq in a post on X stated: Constructive meeting with Afghanistan’s Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi. The discussion centered on strengthening trade ties, enhancing economic cooperation, promoting regional connectivity and exploring opportunities for mutual growth. Pakistan is committed to developing mutually beneficial trade, investment and economic ties with the brotherly country of Afghanistan.
Constructive meeting with Afghanistan’s Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi. The discussion centered on strengthening trade ties, enhancing economic cooperation, promoting regional connectivity and exploring opportunities for mutual growth. Pakistan is committed to developing… pic.twitter.com/OrybkGauYs
— Mohammad Sadiq (@AmbassadorSadiq) December 25, 2024
Talks with Afghan deputy chief minister
According to Amu TV, the Pakistan’s special envoy for Afghanistan, Sadiq Khan, also held talks with Abdul Kabir, the Taliban’s deputy chief minister.
Khan emphasized Pakistan’s interest in fostering partnerships aimed at achieving shared goals of peace and stability.
