ISLAMABAD: Afghan Ambassador Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb has called for stronger connectivity and cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
He made the remarks during an address at the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad on September 1, 2026.
The ambassador highlighted the close links between the two countries. He pointed to their shared geography, history, societies and security concerns.
Afghanistan and Pakistan Share Deep Links
Ambassador Shakeeb said Afghanistan and Pakistan are more than neighboring countries.
“Our geographies are interconnected, our peoples and societies share deep ties, and our histories are intertwined in many respects,” he said.
According to the ambassador, trade, transit and the movement of people connect the two countries.
He also noted that decades of conflict and security developments have linked their security concerns.
Connectivity Key to Regional Stability
The Afghan envoy presented connectivity as an important part of regional cooperation.
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He said stronger links between Afghanistan and Pakistan could support stability and economic development.
Both countries have faced the effects of conflict for decades. However, the ambassador stressed that cooperation should guide their future relations.
He also highlighted the need to build bridges and strengthen mutual trust.
Trade and Transit Ties
Trade and transit remain important areas of interaction between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The movement of goods and people connects communities on both sides of the border.
Ambassador Shakeeb’s remarks therefore placed regional connectivity at the center of broader cooperation.
Stronger economic links could also create opportunities for wider regional engagement.
Call for Greater Trust
The ambassador also addressed the long history of mistrust between the two countries.
He stressed the importance of dialogue and cooperation in overcoming these challenges.
His remarks came amid wider discussions about regional connectivity and cooperation.
At NDU, the message also drew attention to the role of policymakers, academics and security experts in improving bilateral understanding.
Shared Future Requires Cooperation
Ambassador Shakeeb said the futures of Afghanistan and Pakistan remain closely connected.
His address emphasized mutual reliance rather than division.
The speech is expected to contribute to further discussion on connectivity, security and regional cooperation.
For Afghanistan and Pakistan, stronger communication and practical cooperation could help address common challenges and support regional stability.
