The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed Pakistan’s decision to elevate its diplomatic mission in Kabul from a chargé d’affaires to a full ambassador. The group described Pakistan’s move as a positive step towards strengthening bilateral relations.

In a statement issued on Friday, 30 May, the Taliban announced that it would reciprocate by upgrading its own diplomatic representation in Islamabad to the ambassadorial level. However, the ministry did not specify when this change would be formally implemented.

The Taliban stated that enhancing diplomatic ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan would lay the groundwork for broader cooperation across various sectors.

The announcement follows a recent statement by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who said Islamabad was prepared to appoint an ambassador to Kabul. He characterised Pakistan’s relationship with the Taliban as moving in a positive direction, particularly following his recent visit to the Afghan capital.

The move represents a notable diplomatic shift, as both countries had maintained lower-level representation since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.