Resolving this existential crisis is now crucial
For two neighbours like Pakistan and Afghanistan with such similar problems, there is no other option than to strive to maintain good working relations. Pakistan, despite the successes of Zarb e Azb, is unlikely to rid itself of the terrorist threat without the cooperation of the Afghan forces from the other side of the Durand Line. And Afghanistan, despite the backing of America, is unable to establish its writ, as several suicide attacks in Kabul and the recent security situation in Kunduz indicate. And yet, the strained relations between the two persist, benefiting no one but the terrorists.
Afghanistan, being a landlocked nation, requires access to trade routes that Pakistan is in a unique position to offer. The Afghan government is also under immense pressure to accept the repatriation of refugees from both the EU and Pakistan. In addition, the country’s security situation makes for a difficult position to be in. The Afghan Taliban now holds more ground in the country than at any point since 2011. The Taliban onslaught in several provinces, some outside its traditional Pashtun region, shows that the organisation is nowhere near containment, let alone elimination. The TTP and its affiliates using Afghan territory as launching pads have created a security situation the Pakistan government can ill afford to let out of hand. Afghanistan’s withdrawal from the anticipated SAARC summit is therefore disappointing, particularly because of its indication of the Afghan government’s pro-India stance. . While Pakistan has no right to – and therefore should not – interfere in the internal matters of a sovereign nation, the Afghan government should be reminded that the resolution of a lot of our shared problems comes with a healthy and mutually beneficial relationship. The improvement of relations would be in the interest of both nations. There is a need on the part of the governments of the two neighbouring countries to resolve differences and improve relations.