Considering the state of increasing mistrust between Pakistan and the US, a stage has arrived where the US is not ready to play its supposed role as a superpower and where Pakistan is ready to redefine its role in the war, the endgame is far from clear. A lot of stress has been given to the sovereignty issue by both Pakistan and Afghanistan.The multiple incursions into the Pakistani territory from Afghanistan are being translated as serious offences by Pakistanis due to which anti-American sentiments are on the rise.
The fact that the US/Nato forces are notorious for breaching the sovereignty of the host nations is evident from Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s need to pose pre-conditions for the prospective post-2014 extension of US military troops in Afghanistan. Afghanistan has demanded to be given back its sovereignty which means that the unilateral nature of military operations inside Afghanistan is threatening their sovereignty.
Pakistan too, on the other side, is undergoing great trauma as national emotions have been severely bruised by the attack upon its security forces for which there is no apparent reason. This US high handedness and over ambitiousness in Afghanistan are proving detrimental for the much coveted peace. The progress in Afghanistan needs to be step wise where the broader aim ought to be achievable and sustainable peace, instead of forcing ideas and demanding the impossible from the regional players, especially Pakistan. The approaching deadline and the need for a definite exit strategy have the Americans scampering for regional options.
The Pakistanis, despite the current upheaval and growing trust deficit, are not considering the option of pulling out of the war on terror as the end approaches. But it needs to redefine its terms of engagement in the war on terror to align the outcome with its national interests. Also, to enter into a written agreement with the US so as to avoid any further ambiguity in its objectives in this war.
An enhanced border security and surveillance system, however, can ensure that such attacks can be dealt with in future. Pakistan should not stop pushing for a political solution to the Afghan problem and to keep the peace process going.
The US ought to be asked for a clear roadmap instead of a Powerpoint plan so that we may proceed forward in harmony. We must clarify our position to the world that Pakistan too wants a peaceful and stable Afghanistan and that it is not a game spoiler, but seeks peace that does not jeopardise its own national interests.
LUBNA HAMEED
Islamabad
