Afghan Defense Minister Bismillah Khan Mohammadi was in Islamabad on a five-day official trip last week. Leading a six-member delegation, Mohammadi met Pakistan’s top civil and military authorities, according to sources. He discussed a range of issues, including security and defense cooperation between the two neighbors and matters related to the proposed Strategic Partnership Agreement. The visit was important as it provided an opportunity to both sides to discuss their problems and find solutions. It would be felicitous saying it a brilliant inauguration to illuminative future.

Formerly, Pakistan and Afghanistan had begun negotiations on a Strategic Partnership Agreement, laying foundation for joint course of action related to enduring security in both the countries including the release of Taliban detainees, to push forward the troubled peace process in the war-torn country. Pakistan had taken initiatives, agreeing on release of all Taliban inmates in its custody whilst an official dispatched an irritating statement that stiffened the release of rest of Taliban inmates. It is a timely need that both the countries should remove mistrusts, strengthen their relation and address each other’s genuine concerns.

There are several common problems; both countries are facing, with inclusion to border problems and unrelenting terrorism. Recently both Islamabad and Kabul levied strict restrictions on visa procedures with the applicants, only allowed a single-entry, one month visa and, that too happens solely after having used influential references. This bar has jeopardized not only the legitimate business seekers but has also created problems for journalists and dignitaries of both the sides. Both are required to work to strengthen border coordination and also jointly work for the peace. The two countries having cultural and social ties must ease free trade and travel.

Terrorism, undoubtedly, a challenging menace for the two countries has added into the wrecked economies, inflicting worst effects on governance. The endless accusation of terror plots in either country should come to halt and instead information sharing mechanism should be developed and joint counter terrorism initiatives be taken so that none of the terrorists escape the reach of law. Any element causing the breach of trust between the two countries must not be spared, be it Taliban or any other terrorist organization. The insurgents seeking save havens across the borders must be crushed with full might. The ties should be developed based on trust, trade and tourism.

Both Afghanistan and Pakistan need to reaffirm their compliance to launch a joint venture against illiteracy, poverty, terrorism and extremism. It is vital for two countries to develop long-lasting and endless cordial relationships based on mutual respect, material and technical support and co-operation and coordination as seen in the latest developments occurring. Bridging the untied ties may bring sustainable security and stability in both countries.