Afghan MP warns against new US policy, calls for talks with Pakistan 

• Undeniable evidence of terrorists’ presence, sanctuaries in Pakistan, asserts the parliamentarian

KABUL: The mounting tension between Pakistan and neighbouring Afghanistan is not only proving to be beneficial for terrorists from across the world but is also providing an opportunity to a number of other countries to intervene and assert their strategic influence in the region.

“The US has no concern with the return of peace and stability in the region but just for fulfilling its global interests – its renewed strategic plan for Afghanistan,” remarked Dr Ismat Ullah Shinwari during a recent interview in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan. Belonging to an influential family from Shinwari tribe, Dr Ismat Ullah is a member of Ollassi Jirga (National Assembly) from Nangarhar province of Afghanistan and intends to strengthen relations between the two neighbouring countries and promoting peace within the region.

Referring to new US Strategic plan for Afghanistan, Dr Shinwari apprehended arising of further crises and bloodshed upon its implementation. However, the Afghan parliamentarian insisted upon dialogue between the two neighbouring states through Pakhtoons, residing on both sides of the borders. “These Pakhtoons suffered a lot in last four decades and are now aware of the motives behind fabricated trends of militancy and terrorism.”

Dr Shinwari recalled that soon after 9/11, contacts were established and have been in a strengthening phase which has not only enabled Pakistan to get a lion’s share in bilateral trade but has also helped in the reconstruction process in Afghanistan. Similarly, the friendly and cordial relations between Kabul and Islamabad also caused a sharp decline in terror acts, he remarked, adding that “unfortunately, rifts between the two countries later widened thus enabling militants to re-activate their networks also allowing for other foreign countries to intervene.”

Responding to a question, Dr Shinwari said that Afghanistan and Pakistan are not only neighbours but are mutually tied thorough blood relations and friendship. Millions of Afghan refugees are thankful to Pakistan and its people. He asserted that there is undeniable evidence of terrorists’ presence and sanctuaries in Pakistan who are involved in deadly terrorist and violent acts in Afghanistan.

Responding to a question, Dr Ismat Ullah Shinwari dispelled the impression that the Afghan government, as well as the people, prefer India. “Afghans were left with no option other than approaching Indians for help when Pakistan imposed sanctions and restrictions,” he remarked, adding that “Afghan refugees are uncomfortable returning to Afghanistan for health, education, trade and business purposes.” In this connection, he suggested that Pakistan revisit its policies towards Afghans, which could be beneficial for both countries facing similar economic, executive, social and security issues.

He said that there was a short span of peace and stability following 9/11 otherwise bloodshed and hostilities have continued since 1979.

It is time for the both countries to recognize each other’s sovereign status which could help its people in eliminating scores of problems, particularly “sponsored terrorism and extremism.” He made it clear that Afghans will not allow any foreign country to use their soil against Pakistan.

The parliamentarian emphasised that there are ample investment and employment opportunities for Pakistanis in Afghanistan, adding, “maintaining cordial relations will enable Pakistan to monopolise Afghan consumer markets in addition to getting access to Central Asian markets. He said that tribesmen living on both sides of the Pak-Afghan border could play a vital role in resolving differences and misunderstandings between the two countries. In this respect, he suggested convening of a joint Jirga similar to the one held in 2007, enabling tribal elders to discuss and find solutions through sharing of their rich traditions.

Dr Shinwari said that Afghans are weary of imposed wars, violence and hostilities and desire peace and stability in their motherland. “Afghans being victims of war and violence do not want to intervene in internal affairs of other countries,” he responded to a question. “Since long, we have been requesting all regional and neighbouring countries to help end the war of terror, violence and hostilities,” he asserted, adding that Pakistan can play a key role in it. He requested Pakistan to ease border restrictions for tribesmen as it severely impacts not only the economic sources of the people but also affects bilateral trade relations.