The objective of the program “Maraka”, aired on Khyber News is to discuss counterterrorism efforts, the situation in Afghanistan, and the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The program provides weekly updates and in-depth analysis of the latest developments in these areas.
Main Takeaway of the Episode aired on 6 June 2023:
- Program: Maraka
- Host: Hassan Khan
- Guests: Brigadier Retired Ishaq Khattak, Prof. Ijaz Khan, Wahed Faqiri
The meeting between the Qatar Prime Minister and the Taliban Supreme Leader, along with the changes in the interim setup, highlights the shift in the Taliban’s perception and their recognition of the importance of political, economic, and diplomatic engagement with the international community.
Key Points Discussed:
- Rise in Taliban’s Perceived Influence and the Realities of Governance.
- Limited Impact of Economic and Diplomatic Pressure on the Taliban.
- Challenges to Achieving Domestic and International Recognition.
- Divisions within the Taliban and the Importance of Political Resolutions.
- Pakistan’s Expectations and the Shifting Priorities of the Taliban.
- Addressing the Trust Deficit between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Rise in Taliban’s Perceived Influence and the Realities of Governance :
The Doha agreement and the swift withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan led the Taliban to believe that the international community is compelled to comply with their demands. The Taliban’s mistaken belief in their indispensability is rooted in their control over strategically important areas in Afghanistan. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the functioning of a government is subject to its own dynamics, and denying the realities of governance is not a viable approach.
Limited Impact of Economic and Diplomatic Pressure on the Taliban :
The Taliban’s unique interpretation of social, development, and food indicators has made economic and diplomatic pressure less effective in influencing their actions. Recent events, such as the meeting between the Taliban Supreme Leader and Qatar’s Prime Minister, indicate a shift in the Taliban’s perception and their recognition of the importance of engagement with the international community. Qatar’s involvement in conflict resolution suggests that the Taliban now value political, economic, and diplomatic engagement.
Challenges to Achieving Domestic and International Recognition:
The Taliban face significant challenges in achieving recognition, particularly in the economic realm. Restoring peace and effectively governing the country are major tests for the Taliban. To overcome these challenges, the Taliban must enhance their engagement in trade and dispel the notion that the world owes them everything. They need to understand that the responsibility for the destruction in Afghanistan lies not solely with the world, but also with Afghans themselves.
Divisions within the Taliban and the Importance of Political Resolutions :
Divisions exist within the Taliban, with the Qandahari group known for its hardline stance and the Kabul group inclined towards diplomacy and politics. The Kabul group faces difficulties in persuading the Qandahari faction to acknowledge ground realities. There is a growing belief among certain factions within the Taliban, their opponents, and the Afghan population that political resolutions should take precedence over the repeated use of force.
Pakistan’s Expectations and the Shifting Priorities of the Taliban :
Pakistan had high expectations from the Afghan Taliban, but it has come to realize that their priorities differ. The Taliban need time to address their economic and security challenges before meeting external demands. Pakistan has eased its pressure on the Taliban as a result. Fulfilling all of Pakistan’s expectations will be a daunting task for the Taliban.
Addressing the Trust Deficit between Pakistan and Afghanistan :
Both Afghanistan and India policy driven by security operators, often failing to grasp the intricate dynamics at play in Afghanistan . It is crucial for Pakistan and Afghanistan to address the trust deficit between them and cultivate a relationship based on mutual interests and respect. By doing so, they can foster a better understanding of each other’s perspectives and work towards shared goals.
Assessing the Challenges and Shifts in Taliban’s Perception: Insights from Maraka Program
➤ As discussed by host Hasan Khan and the guests, the Doha agreement and the swift withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan created a perception within the Taliban that their demands would be complied with by the international community .
➤ Hassan khan emphasized the need to acknowledge the realities of governance and the fact that a government’s functioning is subject to its own dynamics.
➤ Hassan khan and the guests highlighted the unique interpretation of social, development, and food indicators by the Taliban, which has made economic and diplomatic pressure less effective in influencing their actions .
➤ The recent meeting between the Taliban Supreme Leader and Qatar’s Prime Minister, as discussed by Hasan Khan, signaled a shift in the Taliban’s perception and their recognition of the importance of political, economic, and diplomatic engagement .
➤ Hassan khan and the guests pointed out the significant challenges the Taliban face in achieving recognition, particularly in the economic realm.
➤ Hassan khan stressed the importance of restoring peace and effectively governing the country, which are major tests for the Taliban.
➤ Hassan khan highlighted the divisions within the Taliban, with the Qandahari group known for their hardline stance and the Kabul group more inclined towards diplomacy and politics.
➤ The Kabul group, as mentioned by Hassan khan, faces difficulties in convincing the Qandahari faction to acknowledge ground realities.
➤ Hassan khan discussed Pakistan’s initially high expectations from the Afghan Taliban, but he acknowledged that their priorities differ from Pakistan’s.
➤ The guests emphasized that the Taliban need time to address their economic and security challenges before meeting external demands, leading Pakistan to ease its pressure on them.
➤ Hassan khan and the guests emphasized the importance of addressing the trust deficit between Pakistan and Afghanistan .
➤ They stressed the need for both countries to cultivate a relationship based on mutual interests and respect , allowing for a better understanding of each other’s perspectives and the pursuit of shared goals.
➤ By discussing these key points, host Hassan khan and the guests provided valuable insights into the complexities of the situation in Afghanistan and the challenges faced by the Taliban in governance, recognition, and international engagement.
Guests Profile:
Wahed Faqiri:
Writer, social activist, and distinguished Afghan analyst :
➥ Wahed Faqiri is a highly regarded writer, social activist, and distinguished Afghan analyst who possesses an astute understanding of the complexities surrounding Afghanistan.
➥ With an unwavering focus on Afghan affairs, he has become a prominent figure in numerous discussions about Afghanistan and international relations.
➥ Faqiri’s intellectual acumen and expertise have led him to make appearances on various electronic media platforms, engaging in in-depth conversations about the pressing issues affecting Afghanistan.
➥ In particular, Faqiri has been an influential voice on the esteemed program ” Maraka ,” hosted by Hasan Khan on Khyber News.
➥ This widely acclaimed current affairs show provides a platform for Faqiri to express his perspectives on the prevailing situation in Afghanistan.
➥ As a regular guest on the program, he consistently shares his profound insights, offering nuanced analysis and shedding light on the intricate dynamics of the Afghan landscape.
➥ Outside of his appearances on ” Maraka ,” Faqiri actively participates in various forums, utilizing his platform to raise his voice on the critical matters affecting Afghanistan.
➥ His tireless efforts as a social activist and writer are centered around promoting awareness, justice, and positive change within Afghan society.
➥ On his Twitter handle, @WFaqiri, Faqiri maintains a strong online presence where he further shares his insights and engages with a broader audience.
➥Through his tweets, he continues to contribute to the ongoing discussions on Afghanistan’s challenges and international affairs, fostering a more informed and engaged global community.
Brigadier Retired Ishaq Khattak:
Distinguished defense analyst and an esteemed expert on Afghan affairs
➥ Brigadier Retired Ishaq Khattak is a distinguished defense analyst and an esteemed expert on Afghan affairs, specializing in the domains of defense and security.
➥ With his extensive background and experience, Khattak possesses an exceptional understanding of Afghanistan’s internal and external security challenges, terrorism, and intelligence operations.
➥ Having served as a Counsel General in Afghanistan during his illustrious military career, Brigadier Ishaq Khattak brings a unique perspective to his analysis. His firsthand experience in a crucial diplomatic role has provided him with deep insights into the intricacies of Afghan affairs and has further enhanced his expertise in national security matters.
➥ One of the platforms through which Khattak actively shares his views and expertise is the renowned current affairs program ” Maraka ,” hosted by Hasan Khan on Khyber News.
➥ As a regular guest on the show, he articulates his perspectives on the prevailing situation in Afghanistan, providing viewers with invaluable insights into the complexities of the Afghan landscape and the implications for national security .
➥ Beyond his engagements on “Maraka,” Brigadier Retired Ishaq Khattak is an accomplished defense analyst who has devoted his career to understanding and addressing the security dynamics of Afghanistan.
➥ On his influential Twitter handle, @Ishaqkhattak670, Khattak shares his professional views, extending his reach beyond television appearances.
Prof. Ijaz Khan:
A retired professor from the esteemed University of Peshawar :
➥ Prof. Ijaz Khan, a retired professor from the esteemed University of Peshawar, is a prominent figure in the realm of academic and intellectual discourse.
➥ With a diverse range of subjects, including current affairs, international relations, and the politics of Pakistan and Afghanistan, Prof. Khan’s talks and lectures cater to a broad audience that includes students, researchers, and individuals interested in these areas.
➥ Prof. Khan’s vast knowledge and expertise are not limited to traditional academic settings. He has embraced the digital platform by sharing his insights and knowledge through his informative YouTube channel.
➥ With a focus on reaching a wider audience, Prof. Khan’s videos cover a range of topics, delving into South Asian geopolitics, the role of the United States in the region, and the complex dynamics of international relations.
➥ As a retired professor and former chairman of the Department of International Relations at the University of Peshawar, Prof. Ijaz Khan’s credentials and contributions to academia are highly esteemed.
➥ He boasts an impressive academic background, having obtained his master’s degree from London and his Ph.D. from Peshawar. Prof. Khan’s research work has been recognized globally, with over twenty national and international publications to his name. Notably, his latest book, “Pakistan’s Strategic Culture and Foreign Policy Making: A Study of Pakistan’s Post 9/11 Afghan Policy Change ,” published by Nova Science Publishers, New York, has received critical acclaim.
➥ Prof. Ijaz Khan’s specialties encompass a wide range of topics, including foreign policy decision-making, public international law, human rights, conflict resolution, and in-depth knowledge of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Pashtuns, and the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) that are now merged in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
➥ In today’s episode of ” Maraka ,” a prestigious current affairs program hosted by Hasan Khan on Khyber News, Prof. Ijaz Khan shared his valuable insights on the prevailing situation in Afghanistan. By appearing on this highly regarded platform, he contributes to the program’s mission of providing informed analysis and fostering meaningful discussions on critical regional issues.
➥ Prof. Khan’s expertise and perspective serve as a valuable resource for the program’s viewers, ensuring that they gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics at play in Afghanistan and its impact on the broader South Asian region.
Maraka: A Window into National and International Dynamics :
➥ Maraka provides a platform for in-depth discussions on a wide array of topics.
➥ One of its distinguishing features is the invitation of leaders from different political parties, facilitating comprehensive conversations that cover political dynamics, economic issues, social matters, and the significant impact of the war on terror.
➥ Through its thoughtful analysis and insightful discussions, Maraka has become a trusted source of information and analysis for viewers seeking a deeper understanding of the nation’s pressing concerns.
Hosted by Hassan Khan :
➥ Hassan Khan, the esteemed host of Maraka, possesses the remarkable ability to explore topics fully, ensuring that viewers receive comprehensive insights.
➥ Hassan Khan’s intellectual curiosity is evident in his broad range of interests and his sincere dedication to understanding various issues.
➥ His approach to hosting Maraka exemplifies his openness and patience, as he acknowledges valid points even when they differ from his own perspective. Hassan Khan’s commitment to fostering productive discussions, even amidst disagreements, contributes to the program’s reputation as a fair and intellectually stimulating platform.
➥ An Influential Voice in Understanding and Addressing the Prevailing Situation in Afghanistan.
➥ As the host of Maraka, Hassan Khan has solidified his position as an influential voice in comprehending and addressing the prevailing situation in Afghanistan.
➥ Through his extensive experience and nuanced understanding, Hasan Khan offers insightful perspectives on the complex dynamics shaping the country’s landscape.
➥ His expertise in national and regional politics, combined with his focus on militancy and the ongoing war on terror, brings depth and clarity to discussions on Maraka. Hassan Khan’s informed analysis contributes to viewers’ understanding of the intricate challenges facing Afghanistan and the broader region.
