Afghanistan, March 12 -- Pakistani media report that the United States plans to close its consulate in Peshawar, a major city in Pakistan located near the border with Afghanistan. The decision marks a significant shift in Washington's diplomatic presence in the region.
According to The Express Tribune, the Peshawar consulate served as a key operational and logistical hub before, during, and after the U.S.-led intervention in Afghanistan in 2001. The facility played an important role in coordinating diplomatic and regional activities.
The U.S. State Department has informed Congress that closing the consulate will not negatively affect the country's diplomatic mission in Pakistan. Officials also estimate the move could save approximately $7...