Faisal Karim Kundi, Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stressed the importance of political dialogue with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan during a regional meeting on “Security, Trade, and Economic Affairs between Pakistan and Afghanistan” held in Peshawar.

The event was hosted by the University of Peshawar’s Department of International Relations.

Kundi said that domestic and cross-border challenges can only be addressed through constructive engagement among political leaders. He emphasized that a stable Afghanistan is essential not just for Pakistan, but for the wider region, and that lasting peace is key to economic growth and expanded trade.

The meeting also addressed regional security, trade challenges, and the potential of Pakistan-Afghanistan crossings to strengthen connectivity with Central Asia.

Kundi stated that security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is directly affected by conditions in Afghanistan and recalled how past conflicts, including post-Soviet wars and post-9/11 events, fueled militancy in the region.

The IEA has meanwhile not commented on Kundi’s remarks but officials have in the past repeatedly acknowledged the need for positive dialogue with neighboring countries to strengthen ties and economic relations.

Don Brown, U.S. chargé d’affaires for Afghanistan in Qatar, expressed concern over American citizens currently detained in Afghanistan, describing their situation as “regrettable” and calling for continued diplomatic efforts to resolve the matter.

Brown noted that the detainee issue remains a key focus in discussions between Washington and Kabul.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, said talks with U.S. officials are ongoing and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution.

The matter has been part of U.S.-Afghanistan engagement for several years, with past negotiations securing the release of some Americans.

In September 2025, the U.S. established a framework allowing sanctions on entities that wrongfully detain American citizens.

The situation underscores the continuing importance of detainee negotiations in U.S.–Afghanistan relations.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office summoned the Afghan deputy ambassador to formally protest a recent terrorist attack in Bajaur.

According to spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, the Afghan diplomat was handed a note expressing deep concern over the use of Afghan territory in the attack.

On February 16, militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij targeted security forces in Bajaur, resulting in the deaths of 11 personnel.

The spokesperson emphasized Pakistan’s concern over the continued presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan leadership in Afghanistan and its operations from across the border.

The Afghan diplomat was reminded that such incidents undermine bilateral relations and regional stability.

Pakistan urged the Afghan authorities to take effective measures to curb cross-border militant activity and prevent future attacks.