Turkey Enhances Security Ties in Afghanistan and Pakistan Amid Regional Tensions

İbrahim Kalın, the President of Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization, visited Afghanistan and Pakistan to discuss security and defense cooperation, holding meetings with Taliban officials.

İbrahim Kalın’s Visit to Strengthen Security Cooperation in Afghanistan

İbrahim Kalın, the head of Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization, embarked on a trip to several countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, starting from September 10. This visit underscores Turkey’s increasing efforts to play a central role in regional security and facilitate dialogue between Kabul and Islamabad.

During his visit, Kalın met with high-ranking Taliban officials, including Abdul Haq Wasiq, the head of intelligence, and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs. The discussions primarily focused on enhancing intelligence and defense cooperation, combating terrorism, and addressing drug trafficking.

Significant Meetings Between İbrahim Kalın and Taliban Officials in Kabul and Kandahar

Throughout this trip, Kalın also engaged in talks with Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, the acting Minister of Defense, and Sirajuddin Haqqani, the acting Minister of Interior. These meetings reflect Turkey’s efforts to strengthen its relations with Taliban authorities.

Reports suggest that Turkey has proposed various initiatives for arms and equipment cooperation with Kabul, despite its ongoing non-recognition of the Taliban’s governance.

Turkey’s Mediating Role Amid Tensions Between Kabul and Islamabad

Turkish officials emphasize that Kalın’s regional mission was undertaken at the formal request of Islamabad and in coordination with Qatar. In this context, Kalın has also discussed matters with Hamad bin Khamis Al Kaabi, the Deputy Secretary-General of Qatar’s National Security Council.

Kalın’s meetings in Pakistan included discussions with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and General Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff. He stressed the need for continued diplomatic cooperation to resolve border disputes.

Turkey’s Diplomatic Efforts Towards Building Defense Alliances in the Region

This security activity is viewed as part of a broader initiative to form defense alliances. The collective defense pact among Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia draws attention in this regard.

Strategic experts believe that Turkey aims to serve as a link between NATO, the Gulf, and Asia. However, significant challenges exist in achieving these objectives. The financial burden of tensions in areas like the Strait of Hormuz and other crises may negatively impact Turkey’s capabilities.