Afghan policy flux

Published September 17, 2024

AS the nation confronts a major militancy problem in the midst of poor ties with Kabul, there is a dire need to revisit Pakistan’s Afghanistan policy.

A major sign that things are awry where the Afghan file is concerned emerged in the shape of the recent resignation of Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s special representative on Afghanistan. Mr Durrani was reporting to the military, yet there was seemingly some discord over how to handle the Afghan file, as the powers that be were supposedly unhappy with his performance, and Mr Durrani might have been perturbed by the fact that his advice was not being heeded.

Among the points of contention was the mass expulsion of Afghans; Mr Durrani was not in favour of this. He also thought that Pakistan needed to focus on managing terrorism domestically, as the Afghan Taliban were unlikely to cut their ties with the banned TTP.

Along with Mr Durrani’s resignation, there was also an uproar over KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s stated intent to hold direct talks with the Afghan Taliban. It should be remembered that the conduct of foreign relations is the centre’s domain. The provinces must give their input, but bypassing the centre is an unsound course of action.

Ever since the Taliban takeover of Kabul, Pakistan has struggled to come up with a coherent Afghan policy that sufficiently addresses its concerns about terrorism, and at the same time outlines a roadmap to improve ties with Afghanistan. Pak-Afghan ties should not be seen solely from the security and militancy lens; there are many other factors affecting this relationship, including economics, geopolitics and humanitarian concerns.

A wider debate is needed to frame a workable Afghan policy, and no particular state institution should have the sole discretion to formulate and execute this policy. There needs to be input from parliament, the Foreign Office and area experts. A fresh approach is needed, where Pakistan’s security is prioritised, and a decision taken to improve ties with Kabul. Of course, the Afghan Taliban also need to respond in kind; the biggest confidence-building measure can come in the form of Kabul ensuring an end to cross-border terrorism.

Moreover, the concerns raised by Mr Durrani cannot be brushed aside, particularly where humane repatriation of Afghans is concerned; neither can the need for Pakistan to prevent militants from ensconcing themselves on our soil.

Published in Dawn, September 17th, 2024

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

AN IMF mission is in Islamabad for unusual, early talks with the Pakistani authorities as the lender seems worried...
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

BARA tehsil, a region typically known for its security challenges and socioeconomic problems, can now boast the...
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....