Pakistan says it is open to efforts by friendly countries to ease tensions with Afghanistan, after Russian officials signalled a willingness to help bring the neighbours closer to dialogue.
At an October 16 briefing, the Foreign Office described Russia as an important regional partner but said no formal Russian mediation initiative had been agreed.
Islamabad says any talks with Kabul must address its concerns about armed groups operating from Afghan territory. Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities have disputed Pakistan’s accusations.
Russian visits draw attention
Russia’s Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev visited Pakistan, while Russian intelligence chief Sergey Naryshkin held talks in Kabul, according to reports published on October 16.
The separate diplomatic contacts prompted questions about whether Moscow could help reduce tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Russia also hosted regional consultations on Afghanistan earlier in October, bringing officials together to discuss security and other issues.
Islamabad wants progress on security
Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson said dialogue should produce practical results, including action by Afghan authorities against militant groups that Islamabad says threaten Pakistan.
The dispute has strained relations between the neighbours and complicated earlier efforts to hold talks.
Russia maintains contacts across the region, giving it a potential diplomatic role. For now, its offer to help has not become a scheduled mediation process.
Sources: Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefing, October 16; Al Jazeera.