Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering friendly relations with Afghanistan, highlighting that peace and stability in the neighboring country are essential for Pakistan’s own security.

Governor Kundi made the remarks during a ceremony in Islamabad commemorating the fourth anniversary of the Islamic Emirate’s return to power in Afghanistan. The event also marked the first public appearance of Afghanistan’s newly appointed ambassador to Pakistan, Sardar Shakeeb, following the elevation of his status from chargé d’affaires, Geo News reported.

The ceremony was attended by a diverse group of diplomats from countries including China, Russia, Malaysia, and representatives from the United Nations, alongside prominent Pakistani political figures, such as Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Asad Qaiser, Barrister Saif, and former federal minister Mohammad Ali Durrani.

In his speech, Ambassador Shakeeb emphasized Kabul’s commitment to a policy of non-interference, assuring that Afghan soil would not be used against any neighboring state. He voiced opposition to terrorism and called for the respectful, voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees.

Shakeeb noted that approximately four million Afghans have returned from Pakistan and Iran over the past four years, and said the Islamic Emirate has been providing assistance to returnees wherever possible. He urged host countries to ensure that all repatriations are carried out with dignity and free will.