Reports of India-Taliban discussions have raised concerns in Pakistan’s media and policy circles. Some analysts are urging a shift in Pakistan’s strategy toward Afghanistan. However, such views overlook Pakistan’s consistent policies, historical support for Afghan stability, and legitimate security concerns.
Pakistan has always respected Afghanistan’s sovereignty and supported the Afghan people’s right to decide their future. For decades, it has provided significant assistance during Afghanistan’s most difficult periods, including the Soviet invasion and prolonged conflicts. Pakistan also hosted millions of Afghan refugees, offering them shelter, education, and livelihoods despite the social and economic costs. These actions underscore Pakistan’s commitment to a stable Afghanistan.
Critics who propose revising Pakistan’s strategy fail to understand the core issue: the use of Afghan territory against Pakistan. The rise of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its cross-border attacks pose a direct threat to Pakistan’s security. While Pakistan does not oppose Afghanistan’s engagement with India or other nations, it firmly insists that Afghan soil must not be used to harm Pakistan.
Calls for a softer stance toward the Taliban administration ignore Pakistan’s consistent efforts for constructive engagement. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) to fulfill its commitments, including ensuring that Afghan territory is not used for activities that destabilize neighboring countries. This demand is rooted in principles of good-neighborly relations rather than hostility.
India’s outreach to the Taliban should not be seen as undermining Pakistan’s strategic interests. Previous Afghan governments, such as those led by Hamid Karzai and Ashraf Ghani, also had strong ties with India. Despite this, Pakistan maintained practical and respectful relations with Afghanistan. The same approach remains valid under the Taliban regime.
Pakistan’s primary concerns revolve around securing its western borders from terrorism, illegal trade, and unregulated movement. The worsening security situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border demands immediate attention. Protecting territorial integrity is Pakistan’s right, but effective solutions require active cooperation from Afghanistan. This includes taking strong action against the TTP and other groups destabilizing Pakistan.
Unfair criticism often portrays Pakistan as “aggressive” in its Afghan policies. This misrepresentation ignores Pakistan’s genuine efforts to resolve challenges through dialogue and cooperation. For example, Islamabad’s willingness to engage the Taliban leadership in Kandahar reflects its commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions. However, reciprocal sincerity from the Afghan leadership is essential for success.
Pakistan believes in regional solutions to shared problems. Using regional platforms to collectively pressure the Taliban aligns with its vision of fostering stability in South Asia. However, this approach must not downplay Pakistan’s legitimate concerns or exaggerate India’s influence in Afghanistan.
India’s engagement with the Taliban requires critical evaluation. While India aims to increase its presence in Afghanistan, its influence under the Taliban regime remains uncertain. The Taliban’s ideological ties with other regional actors and India’s lack of a shared border with Afghanistan limit New Delhi’s impact on the region’s security dynamics.
In contrast, Pakistan’s geographical proximity, cultural ties, and historical relationship with Afghanistan make it a key stakeholder. This position does not suggest dominance but recognizes the interconnected futures of the two nations. Pakistan’s focus on a peaceful and secure Afghanistan stems from mutual interest and the need for regional stability.
Alarmist calls for a complete overhaul of Pakistan’s Afghan strategy fail to address the complexities of the issues involved. Security, refugee management, and border stability are interconnected challenges that require a balanced approach. Pakistan’s actions are not driven by hostility toward Afghanistan but by the need to safeguard its interests in the face of real threats.
Concerns about India’s role in Afghanistan are not baseless. India’s history of supporting anti-Pakistan elements in Afghanistan is well-documented. Pakistan has every reason to remain cautious about India’s influence and its implications for regional security.
Pakistan’s approach to Afghanistan should remain guided by its principled stance. Respecting Afghan sovereignty while addressing security concerns through constructive dialogue and regional cooperation is essential. Pragmatic diplomacy is the key to managing the complexities of the Pakistan-Afghanistan relationship.
Critics who advocate drastic changes to Pakistan’s Afghan strategy must consider the stakes. Stability in Afghanistan is crucial for peace in South Asia. Pakistan has played a frontline role in supporting Afghan peace, often at significant cost.
The recent India-Taliban talks should not divert attention from Pakistan’s primary priorities. These include securing borders, addressing terrorism, and fostering regional peace. While Afghanistan has the right to engage with other nations, it must honor its commitments to its neighbors. Pakistan’s clear stance emphasizes mutual respect, dialogue, and a united commitment to counter-terrorism for a stable and prosperous region.
