IEA FM Muttaqi says all neighbours except Pakistan on good terms with Afghanistan

Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has said that Afghanistan seeks peaceful relations with all nations and currently enjoys positive ties with all neighbouring countries—except Pakistan.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Muttaqi stated: “We don’t want conflict with anyone. There is peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan is not our only neighbour. We have five other neighbours … All of them are happy with us.”

His remarks follow recent border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. On Sunday, Muttaqi warned that Kabul has “other options” if Islamabad is not interested in peace.

Reports indicate the clashes have resulted in the deaths of over 50 Pakistani soldiers and the capture of 19 Afghan border posts by Pakistan.

During his visit to India, Muttaqi expressed hope for improved bilateral ties. “We hope our visits will have a positive impact on the India-Afghanistan relationship,” he said, highlighting that trade between the two countries now exceeds $1 billion. He also welcomed India’s decision to upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to the level of an embassy.

“There are numerous opportunities for work in Afghanistan. After 45 years, tremendous peace has been achieved. Due to this peace, people from all over the world are coming for diplomatic purposes. Everyone is happy,” he added.

Muttaqi encouraged Indian investment in Afghanistan’s mineral resources and called on New Delhi to help facilitate trade through the Wagah border, describing it as the fastest route for India-Afghanistan trade.

While in New Delhi, Muttaqi met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss trade, economic cooperation, and regional issues.