PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has finalized the Terms of Reference (ToRs) for two delegations set to visit Afghanistan, with Barrister Saif appointed as the focal person for coordination.
According to sources, Barrister Saif will lead the delegations, which aim to strengthen cross-border tribal diplomacy. The first delegation, comprising tribal elders from border areas and a senior government official, will engage in preliminary talks to create a conducive environment for dialogue. The second delegation will include multiple stakeholders to advance discussions.
The KP government confirmed that all arrangements for the talks would be overseen by Barrister Saif, who has been designated as the focal person for coordination. The provincial government will remain in contact with the federal government regarding the negotiations.
This development follows an All-Parties Conference (APC) chaired by the KP Chief Minister, where participants unanimously agreed that peace in Pakistan is directly linked to peace in Afghanistan. The APC called for immediate government-level talks with Afghanistan to address terrorism and urged political and religious parties to work together to promote sectarian harmony.
However, the Foreign Office has responded to the provincial initiative, emphasizing that foreign affairs fall under federal jurisdiction.
In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan commented on Barrister Saif’s remarks regarding the proposed visit. He stated that while Barrister Saif mentioned plans to coordinate with the federal government, it is essential to note that foreign affairs are the sole responsibility of the federal government.
