Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, has stated that the current moment is not suitable for recognizing Afghan interim government, led by the Taliban. This position reflects Pakistan’s cautious approach to formalizing ties with the Taliban administration, which has been in power since August 2021 following the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan. Dar’s remarks highlight ongoing concerns about the Taliban’s governance, particularly regarding human rights, women’s education, and counter-terrorism efforts.
Decision for Afghan Interim Government
The decision comes amid complex regional dynamics. Pakistan has maintained diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan, including trade agreements and coordination on issues like refugee repatriation. However, Islamabad remains wary of the Taliban’s policies, especially their restrictions on women’s rights, such as barring girls over 12 from schools and limiting women’s access to public spaces. These policies have drawn international criticism and complicate recognition efforts by countries seeking stability in Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s stance aligns with a broader international consensus, as no country has yet formally recognized the Taliban government, partly due to its failure to meet commitments on inclusive governance and counter-terrorism. Dar’s statement also reflects Pakistan’s strategic concerns about cross-border militancy. The rise in attacks by groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has strained relations, with Islamabad urging the Taliban to curb militant activities originating from Afghan soil. This cautious approach underscores Pakistan’s balancing act between maintaining regional influence and addressing domestic security challenges.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 27th, 2025
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