“Expanding cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, counter-terrorism and people to people contacts is a top priority for Pakistan,” the foreign minister posted on X, after he received a congratulatory call from the Afghan minister.

The deputy spokesperson at the Afghan foreign ministry, Hafiz Zia Ahmad, said FM Muttaqi hoped that Dar’s assumption of office would have a “positive and constructive role in strengthening the relations” between the two neighbours.

“The region is increasing its positive interactions day by day and the practical work of major infrastructure projects is starting at the regional level and we are expecting to take a constructive part in Pakistan,” he quoted Muttaqi as saying in a post on X. The minister also invited Dar to visit Afghanistan.

Both sides emphasised bringing facilities for passengers, patients and commercial traffic on the Durand Line and eliminating existing problems, it added.