Pakistan’s proactive Afghan policy is not without a reason. As a victim of war on terror and recipient of millions of refugees, Islamabad believes an inclusive government in Kabul is the only way to lasting peace and security in the region. This is why Pakistan has been in contact with all stakeholders to ensure that the next dispensation is broad-based, and the world community comes forward to rebuild the strife-torn state. Pakistan by virtue of its influence over Taliban is acting as honest-broker, and its efforts are duly appreciated by world leadership.
Prime Minister Imran Khan, in an attempt to further the envelope, has been in deliberations with world leaders, making them aware of the necessity to remain closely involved in pulling Afghanistan out of the abyss. The other day, the PM spoke to Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and apprised them of the headway that Pakistan has made in ensuring smooth transition in Kabul. He also underscored the need for supporting the Afghan economy. He was categorical in making the Royals realise the fallout of Afghan diaspora in the region, and sought their magnanimity in rehabilitating Afghans in their homeland. The Arab leadership assured of their all-out contribution, and lauded the Pakistani statesmanship for peace, progress and development in the region. In this regard, a virtual meeting of the special representatives of China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan was conducted by Pakistan, and the neighbouring states reiterated their resolve for a tranquil Afghanistan. They also seconded Islamabad’s efforts in this regard.
ISI chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed’s air dash to Kabul was also meant to keep the Taliban debriefed over the indispensability of a coalition government. NSA Moeed Yusuf, likewise, had rightly observed that the world community needs to engage with Afghanistan to stop a humanitarian crisis and a security vacuum. As Napoleon Bonaparte believed that no state can dispense with its geography, so is the case with Pakistan. Islamabad’s extraordinary measures to ensure peace on its western frontiers are in need of global backing.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 7th, 2021.