Adding to tensions between the neighboring nations, Afghanistan banned all Pakistani newspapers in the country to block the Taliban “propaganda” from influencing public opinion. Such moves are not only bound to further strain the already problematic bilateral equation but also exemplify the sentiments of the US-backed Afghan government. On the other hand, different factions of the Afghan society have rightly criticized such an approach of Afghan government as imprudent and unwise.
Before taking such an irrational step, the Afghan authorities should have realized that once the foreign troops’ pullout is complete, Kabul would need Islamabad’s cooperation in every sphere of life. True Afghan leaders’ alliance with India is supported by Washington; yet, Kabul must keep in mind, the vital role that Pakistan can play for peace and prosperity of Afghanistan.
Afghan authorities should remember and value the old age transnational Pak-Afghan bondage that has always defied the existence of physical boundaries and divisions between both countries. It is Pakistan who has always entertained thousands of Afghan refugees by housing them, providing them food, employment opportunities and security.
Both have borne the brunt of a war three decades back, they will be left alone to lick the wound inflicted by this long war with a horde of extremist groups at their hands to de-radicalise and reintegrate into the society, accompanied by a colossal pressure from the international community and Human rights organizations for not handling things correctly. This reintegration process may take another decade to begin as things in the South Asian continent move with a painful slowness. Hence belligerence, evident through such acts by Afghan officials, must be discouraged for peaceful friendly relations. Instead of focusing unfairly upon what Pakistan has allegedly unleashed upon Afghanistan, and reacting by childish ploys a few home truths need to be rammed into the short term Afghan memory.
JAWAYRIA MALIK
Islamabad
