AMSTERDAM, 02 September 2021, (TON): Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag is expected in Islamabad to discuss the evolving situation in Afghanistan with her Pakistani counterpart, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office (FO).

The statement said the talks between the two foreign ministers would focus on measures needed for the transportation to the Netherlands of Dutch and eligible Afghan citizens, who have not been evacuated from the war-torn country yet.

The statement said “Qureshi and Kaag are also expected to talk about the recent developments [in Afghanistan], the scope for keeping borders and Kabul airport open, the importance of safe departure routes and possible support to that end from Pakistan.”

It added "future efforts relating to Afghanistan and the importance of security and stability, both in Afghanistan itself and in the wider region, will also come under discussion."

In addition, the FO said, “the foreign minister would discuss longstanding bilateral and economic relations between Pakistan and the Netherlands.”

The visit by the Dutch foreign minister will be another development on the diplomatic front in connection with the situation in Afghanistan, following the US drawdown and Taliban takeover of the country.

In recent days, Pakistan has been emphasising the need for close coordination of the international community for the restoration of peace in Afghanistan and has stepped up diplomatic efforts for the same.