Afghan Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani has expressed deep gratitude to Pakistani religious scholars and parties, including Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, for extending goodwill and positive intentions toward Afghanistan. Speaking at an event in Kabul on December 28, 2025, Haqqani highlighted recent statements from Pakistani ulema as a welcome step toward better relations. He emphasized Afghanistan’s commitment to regional peace and invited neighboring countries to support its reconstruction efforts. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, primarily over cross-border terrorism concerns.
H.E. Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani in Kabul:
Weappreciate all sides with goodwill toward Afghanistan.The recent gathering of scholars in Pakistan & the positive remarks of FM Ishaq Dar are welcomed. Such statements strengthen constructive engagement & bring.pic.twitter.com/fREUAlXLfz— Siriajuddin Haqqani سراج الدین حقاني مینوال (@SirajHaqqaniFan) December 28, 2025
Key Highlights
- Haqqani specifically thanked Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mufti Taqi Usmani for their goodwill gestures during a December 23 conference.
- He welcomed positive statements from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
- Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi also praised Pakistani scholars for advising peace and brotherhood.
- Afghanistan assured no ill intentions toward any neighbor and seeks partnership in its rebuilding phase.
- Recent Pak-Afghan talks in Doha and Istanbul failed to resolve differences over TTP activities, leading to suspended trade ties.
- Earlier border clashes in October prompted temporary ceasefires and dialogue efforts mediated by Turkiye and Qatar.
Sirajuddin Haqqani Extends Olive Branch to Pakistan
The Afghan minister’s comments reflect a desire to ease strains through dialogue and mutual respect. Haqqani noted that goodwill from religious leaders — such as those gathered in Karachi on December 23 — plays a vital role in fostering closeness between nations. He stressed Afghanistan’s firm decision to focus on development, urging others to abandon negative perceptions.
Meanwhile, Muttaqi echoed similar sentiments the previous day, appreciating how Pakistani madrasa scholars and parties urged their government toward peaceful resolutions. Such voices, he said, align with the historic role of ulema in promoting brotherhood.
ALERT: Haqqani Welcomes Pakistani Calls for Dialogue with Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani on Sunday welcomed recent remarks by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, as well as a statement issued by Pakistani religious…
— The Khorasan Diary (@khorasandiary) December 28, 2025
Persistent Challenges in Pak-Afghan Relations
Bilateral ties remain tested by security issues. Pakistan continues to call for decisive action against the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), blaming cross-border attacks. Multiple rounds of talks — including in Doha, followed by sessions in Istanbul — ended without a breakthrough, with Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declaring negotiations in an indefinite phase on November 7.
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Trade disruptions followed, deepening economic strain on both sides. Haqqani’s appreciative tone toward Pakistani ulema signals Afghanistan’s openness to constructive engagement. As the interim government enters a reconstruction phase, these gestures from religious figures could help build bridges and contribute to lasting stability in the region. Pakistan’s consistent support for Afghan peace remains a foundation for potential progress.
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