Torkham turbulence

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There is some serious confusion between Kabul and Islamabad as they are refusing to see from the same prism of geo-economics. The straining of relations between the two states over a petty issue of building a check-post is worrisome, and hints at some deep-rooted mistrust that is pushing them over the brink. While tension had been simmering on the Torkham border for the last few weeks, it is utterly unwarranted to see skirmishes take place between the two sides, resulting in the death of an Afghan border guard and injuries to scores of others, including Pakistan's FC soldiers. Though Pakistani authorities are tight-lipped over the clashes, there are reports of sporadic firing and damage to checkpoints on either side.

The controversy is regarding the unilateral decision of the Afghan Taliban to build a check-post on their side without informing Pakistan, which is mandatory as per reciprocity. The adamant attitude on the part of the Taliban rulers who are refusing to address the issue of non-state actors has become a bone of contention. Moreover, the fact that clashes erupted as talks were underway is quite unfortunate, and that too during the holy month of Ramadan.

The contentious border is a major source of succour to Afghans as hundreds of trucks and pedestrians cross it from Pakistan. Besides, hundreds and thousands in the surrounding region enter Pakistan through it for work. This aspect should be valued by Kabul, and there is no point in digging heels on frivolous issues like what seems to be the case this time around. The brewing chaos is feared to graduate into a renewed crisis of confidence, and this is where some astute leadership is needed to restore normalcy.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are passing through a critical phase wherein terrorism is bouncing back, which goes on to undermine the vitality of regional cooperation. CPEC, TAPI and other logistical networks find themselves in limbo as bilateralism gets estranged. This Torkham turbulence is now getting on the nerves, and is in need of a generous solution by flagging tribal conventions and cordiality.