Moot discusses ways to achieve regional stability

Participants say connectivity a must to promote economic prosperity

ISLAMABAD:

A collective approach is a must to strengthen regional stability and economic connectivity.

Only through a collective approach and joint strategy, can Pakistan and Afghanistan eliminate the threats jeopardizing regional security and foster economic cooperation and connectivity.

This was emphasised by the participants of the 2nd Pakistan Afghanistan Civil Society Conference on Exploring Approaches for Regional Peace and Stability, organized by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), in collaboration with its Afghan partner Organization for Economic Studies and Peace (OESP).

The dialogue brought together prominent civil society stakeholders from Pakistan, Afghanistan

and Uzbekistan to discuss pressing issues and potential approaches oriented towards solutions.

Despite ongoing border closures, the dialogue demonstrated a commitment to cooperation and moving in the right direction.

Participants emphasised the importance of addressing security threats posed by groups like Al-Qaeda, TTP, and IS to the entire region.

They stressed the need for a joint strategy – with regional approach at its core - to counter these proxy terrorist organisations.

While acknowledging the tension in Chitral as a serious security challenge, the forum recognised the need to understand the mentalities of these extremist groups to be able to cope with them and encouraged diplomatic engagement to resolve issues, instead of leveling allegations and blame game.

There was consensus on the need for a collective approach to address extremist threats in the region. Participants highlighted the importance of reciprocal and equal relationships between nations.

The issue of refugees and their treatment was also discussed, acknowledging its impact on trust and mistrust between the two countries. The dialogue emphasised the importance of insulating social-economic life from unresolved issues and putting contentious matters on the back burner. Indigenous peacebuilding frameworks were also encouraged.

In the session on economic cooperation, participants highlighted the importance of economic prosperity, trade, and border stability while stressing that economic cooperation should not be affected by political or security issues.

Issues related to smuggling, sudden border closures, and the need to build trust within the business community were discussed. The collaboration between small businesses and indigenous people was seen as a way to create stakes and promote peace.

Participants recognised the importance of cooperating and strengthening relations with Afghanistan, even in the absence of full recognition of the Taliban-led government.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 15^th, 2023.