JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman is set to visit Kabul today, according to a statement by Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid. This visit follows an invitation extended by the Afghan interim government to Rehman last month. This visit marks his first trip to Afghanistan since the Taliban assumed control in 2021.
The timing of the visit is crucial, given the strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, exacerbated by a surge in terrorist attacks, mostly attributed to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Islamabad has asserted that the TTP and other militant groups use Afghan territory for launching attacks against Pakistan. While the Afghan Taliban deny these allegations, Pakistani authorities remain skeptical and have called for action against the TTP, its hideouts, and the extradition of its leaders.
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In November, the caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwarul Haq Kakar, highlighted a significant increase in terrorism, citing a 60% rise overall and a 500% surge in suicide bombings since the Taliban’s assumption of power in August 2021.
Fazlur Rehman mentioned that discussions on the TTP issue would be part of the agenda during his visit to Afghanistan. He received an invitation, approved by the Taliban supreme leader, and expressed his intention to meet with Taliban leader Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada, known for rarely meeting foreign delegates. When asked about addressing the TTP matter, Fazlur Rehman affirmed the possibility, stating that he would leverage his relationship with Taliban leaders for the benefit of both countries.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of heightened security concerns in the region and aims to facilitate diplomatic efforts to address mutual challenges, fostering cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
