Battling mistrust with cooperation

Afghanistan continues to seek Pakistan’s support to achieve stability

PESHAWAR: The ever-widening trust deficit between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been hampering historical and cultural ties between both countries for a long time.

Last week, Afghanistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Omar Zakhilwal visited Peshawar and did his best to explain Afghanistan’s stance on the current regional situation and the challenges faced by his country.

Although a large number of Afghan diplomats have made attempts to ensure cordial relations between both countries, their efforts have failed to yield positive outcomes. More often than not, diplomats face threats on their lives and have even been abducted. As a result, they can do little to mend relations when they are confined to their homes and offices due to security threats.

No one can deny Pakistan has made all-out efforts to help refugees in their time of need since 1979 after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. A large number of Afghans—irrespective of race or religion—have admitted to this fact.

However, Afghan politicians have repeatedly voiced their disappointment over Pakistan’s lack of interest in joining hands to restore peace and carry forward the reconciliation process. Amid an era of mistrust, Afghans seek Pakistan’s support as they believe peace and stability will not be achieved without its neighbour’s cooperation.

The COAS factor

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif has been actively involved in strengthening relations with Afghanistan and is developing a joint strategy against extremism and militancy. Over time, the army chief has become a credible figure who is respected across
the border.

The COAS has been in close contact with Afghan President Dr Ashraf Ghani since October 2014 and has made frequent visits to Kabul. Although the army chief and the Afghan government agree on a great deal, Pak-Afghan relations have not yielded the desired result.

The way forward

During his two-day visit to Peshawar, Zakhilwal said, “A majority of people from both countries want peace and favour cordial relations with each other. But some troublemakers are
creating hurdles.”

Similarly, he assured Chief Minister Pervez Khattak that Afghan nationals in Pakistan are peace-loving people and are not, contrary to popular perception, criminals.

Khattak also vowed to provide Afghan refugees who lack proof of registration the opportunity to register.

In addition to holding talks with politicians and officials, Zakhilwal also addressed a gathering at University of Peshawar and members of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of Commerce and Industries. He publically expressed his willingness to strengthen ties with Pakistan.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are facing similar issues – extremism and terrorism have resulted in unemployment, poverty and disorder.

It is time for the government, politicians and opinion leaders to realise their responsibilities and take sincere and realistic steps to handle the crisis amid hostilities in Afghanistan. Attempts should also be made to reconcile with troublemakers and a suitable mechanism should be devised in
this regard.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 7^th, 2016.