ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (Reuters) – Afghanistan’s Taliban-appointed chief of foreign affairs begins a Wednesday visit to Pakistan to talk trade and other ties. The Taliban are seeking global recognition as well as unfreezing assets in order to avoid an economic crisis.

Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will lead a delegation to Islamabad to discuss “Pakistan-Afghanistan relations with a particular focus … on enhanced trade, facilitation of transit trade, cross-border movement, land and aviation links, people-to-people contacts, and regional connectivity”, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said.

Although Pakistan does not officially recognize the Taliban government after it was overthrown in August by the militants, the Pakistani government has had long-standing ties to the group. However, Islamabad denies the accusations of the Afghan old rulers that Islamabad supported the Islamists during the 20-year war.

As the Taliban strive for global recognition, this visit is necessary.

Pakistan called upon governments to permit development aid to flow to Afghanistan. They also urged central bank assets of billions to be unfrozen to avoid economic collapse.

The relations between Pakistani Taliban and Pakistan are generally friendly, but they still have problems.

Pakistan International Airlines, a national carrier in Pakistan, suspended Kabul operations last month after accusing Taliban officials with interference.

Traders also complain that certain crossings at their common border are closing frequently, interfering with flow of goods.

The Pakistani foreign ministry stated that this week’s visit was an extension of the last month’s by Kabul’s foreign Minister. He focused on trade facilitation.

A conference was being held on Wednesday by Pakistan’s arch-rival India on Afghanistan. But, Pakistani national security adviser stated that Pakistan won’t be there.

India used to have close relations with Afghanistan’s U.S.-backed government. The Taliban defeat represents a major loss in India’s influence in Afghanistan.