According to sources, Ibrahim Kalın, head of Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization (MIT), visited Kabul, where he met with some senior officials of the Taliban government and key members of the cabinet. Sources say the meetings included detailed discussions on various political, regional and other matters of mutual interest.

Ibrahim Kalın and a Taliban official standing side by side in Kabul with the Turkish and Taliban flags behind them.
Ibrahim Kalın and a Taliban official stand together in Kabul beneath Turkish and Taliban flags. Exclusive image supplied by Baba. — Baba-supplied exclusive photography

According to sources, the meetings also covered recent tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, relations between the two countries and the situation along the border. In addition, the discussions addressed the prolonged closure of trade routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan and its effects on the economies and trade of both countries.

According to sources, Turkish officials also discussed the situation regarding an end to the tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, bilateral negotiations and the restoration of trade routes. Following the meetings, the Turkish intelligence chief departed Kabul.

Ibrahim Kalın walking with officials beside an honour guard after meetings in Kabul.
Ibrahim Kalın walks with officials and an honour guard after meetings in Kabul. Exclusive image supplied by Baba. — Baba-supplied exclusive photography

It should be noted that important trade routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan have been affected for a long time by tensions in relations between the two countries, causing serious damage to bilateral trade. In recent months, Afghanistan has also accelerated efforts to reduce its dependence on Pakistan and promote alternative trade corridors through Iran and Central Asian routes.