ال پاکستان سی این جی ایسوسی ایشن کے صوبائی چئرمین فضل مقیم خان نے اعلان کیا ہے کہ کل بروز ہفتہ 3 فروری سے خیبر پختونخوا کے تمام سی این جی سٹیشنز باقاعدہ طور پر کھل دیئے جائیں گے۔
پشاور میں تمام سی این جی اسٹیشنز کل بروز ہفتہ 3 فروری سے باقاعدہ طور پر کھل دیئے جائیں گے، ال پاکستان سی این جی ایسوسی ایشن کے صوبائی چئرمین فضل مقیم خان pic.twitter.com/gQmd4I7CM9
— Voice of KP (@Voice_of_KP) February 2, 2024
Crisis Unfolding: The Decline in Student Enrollments Grips Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Premier University
In a disconcerting development, the University of Peshawar, the largest academic institution in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), finds itself in the throes of a significant decline in student enrollments for its Bachelor of Science (BS) programs. This unsettling trend not only raises questions about the financial health of the university but also sheds light on broader challenges facing higher education in the region.
According to recent reports, the University of Peshawar, with a capacity to admit 6,000 students annually across its 53 departments, has experienced a staggering 50% drop in admissions this year. The enrollment figures for BS programs have dwindled to just over 2,800 students, a stark contrast to the numbers from the preceding academic year.
The repercussions of this decline extend beyond mere statistics. A closer examination reveals that 10 out of the 53 departments have not admitted a single student. Disciplines such as Pashto, Persian, Philosophy, Gender Studies, History, and Social Work find themselves grappling with the prospect of empty classrooms. The financial fallout is projected to be substantial, with an estimated annual loss of 18 crore rupees, exacerbating the university’s existing financial challenges.
Education experts identify a confluence of factors contributing to this concerning downturn. Chief among them is a notable increase in fees, rising by several percentage points. The fee per semester for BS programs has surged from 52 thousand to 72 thousand rupees, potentially acting as a deterrent for aspiring students, especially in a region where financial constraints are prevalent.
A crucial observation is the emergence of BS programs in most provincial colleges, offering a fixed fee of 4,500 rupees per semester. This affordability factor in regional colleges could be drawing students away from the university, opting for more economical educational alternatives.
The situation at the University of Peshawar is not an isolated incident but reflective of challenges faced by other universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The landscape of higher education in the province is evolving, with new institutions vying for student attention. This shift presents both opportunities and threats, as established universities must adapt to remain attractive and relevant.
As the premier educational institution grapples with these challenges, it becomes imperative to assess the broader implications for higher education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The declining enrollments not only pose a threat to the academic vibrancy of individual universities but also raise concerns about the overall quality and accessibility of higher education in the region.
The stakes are high, and the response to this crisis will shape the future trajectory of universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It necessitates a strategic reevaluation of fee structures, a focus on enhancing the competitive edge of established institutions, and a proactive approach to address the evolving needs and preferences of students in a rapidly changing educational landscape.
The resilience and adaptability of universities in KP will play a pivotal role in determining their future relevance and sustainability. While the current scenario presents formidable challenges, it also offers an opportunity for higher education institutions to introspect, innovate, and emerge stronger to meet the educational needs of the diverse and dynamic student population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As these universities navigate the evolving landscape, their ability to innovate and adapt will be crucial in ensuring the continued vibrancy and relevance of higher education in the region.
To comprehend the depth of the issue, it is essential to explore the challenges faced by other universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The University of Peshawar’s predicament is not an isolated occurrence but a symptom of a broader ailment afflicting the higher education sector in the province.
Reports indicate that several universities in KP are witnessing a notable decrease in student admissions, presenting a collective challenge to the region’s higher education landscape. A key contributing factor to this decline is the surge in tuition fees across various institutions. The financial strain imposed on students, combined with economic uncertainties in the region, is discouraging prospective applicants from pursuing higher education.
Moreover, the proliferation of universities in different districts of KP has reshaped the higher education landscape. The allure of proximity and accessibility offered by these newer institutions has resulted in a redistribution of student preferences. Established universities are grappling with heightened competition, compelling them to reassess their strategies to attract and retain students.
Furthermore, the introduction of BS programs in provincial colleges, featuring significantly lower tuition fees, has emerged as a formidable competitor to traditional universities. The fixed fee of 4,500 rupees per semester in these colleges has made education more accessible for many students, diverting them from the more expensive university options.
Departments in various universities are feeling the impact of this enrollment crisis. Disciplines such as Pashto, Persian, Philosophy, Gender Studies, History, and Social Work, which have historically been integral components of a well-rounded education, are particularly vulnerable. Several departments are reporting a complete absence of new admissions, posing a threat to the continuity and vitality of these academic fields.
The financial implications of declining enrollments are not confined to individual universities but extend to the overall health of the higher education sector in KP. The annual loss of millions of rupees for each affected institution exacerbates financial deficits, limiting their capacity to provide quality education and invest in essential infrastructure and faculty development.
As the educational landscape in KP undergoes a transformation, it becomes imperative for universities to adapt and innovate. Strategic measures such as revisiting fee structures, enhancing the relevance of academic programs, and investing in marketing and outreach efforts are crucial for these institutions to navigate the challenges posed by the evolving preferences of students.
The resilience and adaptability of universities in KP will play a pivotal role in determining their future relevance and sustainability. While the current scenario presents formidable challenges, it also offers an opportunity for higher education institutions to introspect, innovate, and emerge stronger to meet the educational needs of the diverse and dynamic student population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As these universities navigate the evolving landscape, their ability to innovate and adapt will be crucial in ensuring the continued vibrancy and relevance of higher education in the region.
In a remarkable display of commitment to education and skill development, the Pakistan Army has spearheaded the establishment of a Digital Skills Centre in Peshawar, situated at Hasan Khel. This visionary initiative, operating within the premises of Government High School Shamshato, is poised to redefine education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Beyond the conventional realms of academia, the Digital Skills Program is laying the foundation for a more empowered and technologically adept generation.
The heart of this transformative initiative lies in providing comprehensive training to young individuals. The Digital Skills Centre, equipped with a cutting-edge computer lab, hosts a diverse range of training courses ensuring that students not only receive theoretical knowledge but also acquire hands-on practical experience. This holistic approach is cultivating a generation capable of navigating the intricacies of the digital economy and contributing meaningfully to the workforce.
One of the most commendable aspects of the program is its emphasis on empowering women through modern skills. As the Digital Skills Centre expands into its second phase, it is set to amplify its impact by enhancing the skill set of women in the region. By breaking down traditional barriers and fostering gender inclusivity, the program aligns with the broader goals of social development and equality.
The establishment of the Digital Skills Centre is a testament to the foresight and dedication of the Pakistan Army. Beyond its primary role in national defense, the Army has strategically aligned itself with the mission of nation-building. By investing in education, particularly in cutting-edge digital skills, the Army is contributing to the creation of a workforce that can compete on the global stage.
The Digital Skills Centre not only serves as a symbol of progress but also as a tangible example of the Pakistan Army’s commitment to the well-being and future prosperity of the nation. The initiative showcases the Army’s understanding of the evolving needs of society and its proactive approach to address them.
Beyond its impact on education, such Digital Skills Program will play a crucial role in economic development. By focusing on practical skills demanded by the digital era, the program is effectively contributing to the creation of a skilled workforce. This, in turn, has a ripple effect on the economic landscape of the region, as skilled individuals are better positioned to secure employment and contribute to economic growth.
Conclusion: The Pakistan Army’s establishment of the Digital Skills Center in Peshawar is a shining example of how a national institution can lead the way in shaping the future of its people. This initiative not only uplifts education in KP but also sets a precedent for other regions to follow. As we admire the Army’s foresight and commitment to holistic development, it is evident that this initiative will leave a lasting impact, creating a more empowered, skilled, and prosperous Pakistan.
Pakistan faces a myriad of environmental security challenges that compound worries about its economic economic stability. These challenges encompass issues such as water scarcity, air pollution, climate change, and environmental degradation. The country is on its way becoming the most water-stressed country in the region by the year 2040. This water crisis can negatively impact agricultural production, which contributes around 23% of Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and creates job opportunities for around 42% of the population. The water crisis can also lead to increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and increased poverty.
Along with the issue of water scarcity, Air pollution has also emerged as a huge problem in Pakistan affecting health as well as transport and mobility. This can lead to increased healthcare costs and reduced productivity, which can negatively impact the economy.
Pakistan is among the top ten most vulnerable countries in the world to the impacts of climate change. Climate change can lead to floods, heat waves, drought, crop losses, and diseases, which can negatively impact the economy. Climate change can also lead to climate-induced conflict over resources, such as water, that have become scarce due to climate change impacts.
Environmental degradation, including soil erosion, deforestation, and unbridled and unplanned urbanization, can also negatively impact the economy by reducing productivity and competitiveness. Environmental degradation can also lead to increased poverty, particularly among vulnerable populations. It is estimated that environmental degradation costs Pakistan about 6% of its GDP per year.
The environmental security challenges confronting Pakistan present a pressing national emergency that warrants immediate attention and action, akin to a wartime effort. These challenges, if left unaddressed, have the potential to compound the country’s existing multitude of issues, including economic strains. They also carry the risk of igniting conflicts rooted in climate-related resource scarcity, particularly concerning vital resources like water, which have grown scarcer due to the impacts of climate change.
It is crucial to recognize that environmental issues and challenges are intricately intertwined with larger economic concerns faced by Pakistan. The environment exerts a profound and lasting impact on national expenditure. Pakistan’s environmental and climate change crisis isintricately linked with the country’s energy security. The environmental challenges Pakistan faces significantly affect its energy sector, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues comprehensively. Here are some of the ways through which these challenges are impacting Pakistan’s energy sector:
Pakistan is grappling with a significant energy deficit, resulting in inadequate energy supply to meet the needs of its population. This energy shortfall has led to widespread power outages, affecting various sectors of the economy and causing inconvenience to the general populace. This is exacerbated by the flood impacts on the government’s resources and on Pakistan’s physical energy infrastructure. Also, increased temperatures in cities have generated an increased demand in energy and cooling appliances like air conditioners and chillers. These are contributing towards increased energy demand further creating burden on existing energy infrastructure where both production and distribution of electricity in adequate amount is a challenge.
When demand of electricity increased, it creates a situation where despite having indigenous rivers, natural gas, renewable, and coal resources, Pakistan has become more dependent on imported oil, gas, and—recently—coal resources due to poor planning and poor policymaking cycles over the decades. This dependency makes Pakistan increasingly vulnerable to trade disruptions and price fluctuations. Recent uproar over electricity bills is the most vivid example of this inter-lined phenomenon.
Anti-environmental energy policies are further amplifying environmental challenges to Pakistan and the South Asia region as a whole. Pakistan established coal-based power plants in large number in areas where air pollution was minimum previously like Sahiwal. Such projects are not only a challenge for environment but also make no sense from economic viability point of view as they run on imported coal and are located thousands of miles away from Pakistan’s main port city of Karachi. As mentioned earlier, affordability of energy is a major challenge in Pakistan, where many people cannot afford to pay for electricity. Expensive energy created through imported fossil fuel is not only destroying our environment but also weakening our social fabric. This situation can lead to reduced access to energy, which can negatively impact economic growth and development.
Pakistan has significant potential for renewable energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower. However, the country has not yet fully tapped into this potential, and the energy mix is still dominated by fossil fuels. Many countries around the world have moved on these energy resources to protect their environment and secure their social bond.
To address these environmental security challenges, Pakistan needs to implement long term policies and measures to improve environmental sustainability, such as reducing air and water pollution, addressing climate change, and promoting sustainable agriculture. By addressing these environmental challenges, Pakistan can achieve sustainable economic growth and development.
Pakistan must invest in climate resilience to protect the economy from shocks and secure more sustainable and inclusive growth. Iinterventions to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions can also have co-benefits for both adaptation and mitigation.
The state also needs to address root causes of environmental degradation, such as unsustainable land use practices and deforestation, through proper mitigation and environmental legislation. And also, invest in renewable energy to reduce dependency on imported resources and improve energy security. Improving energy efficiency can reduce energy demand and improve affordability.
The environmental concerns, such as air pollution and water scarcity, needs to be addressed through proper mitigation and environmental legislation. Moreover, improving governance and fiscal management of the energy sector can ensure reliable and affordable energy access for all.
“Truth is the first casualty in war” – Aeschylus
Pakistan has been entrenched in a state of conflict for the last two decades. Following 9/11, a cascade of geopolitical events plunged Pakistan into a vicious cycle of violence and instability. Apart from religiously motivated TTP, some sleeping sidewinders were also resurrected from hibernation like ethno-linguistic led insurgency in Baluchistan, a province that was otherwise quiet on internal security axis since 1970s. Beyond conventional methods of violence, these organizations have developed sophistication in the tactics of propaganda and misinformation. Social media and other emerging technologies played a crucial role in supporting their psychological operations (Psy-ops) capabilities against the security forces of Pakistan.
It is no secret that social media has become a powerful weapon of warfare in the 21st century. Along with revolutionizing the sources of communication, entertainment and information, social media become tools for manipulation, subversion and deception. This is exactly how religiously and politically extremist organizations have been deploying it. As a tactic of modern warfare; political actors, both state and non-state, use social media for polarization and propaganda campaigns to shape public opinion in their favour and to undermine democracy and human rights.
Hostile intelligence agencies are also actively engaged in this contemporary warfare against Pakistan. This phenomenon became apparent during recent years when it was revealed that India has established various fake news outlets worldwide and used them to malign Pakistan. These outlets generated tons of propaganda material for online consumption mostly targeting Pakistani masses particularly the young minds through social media.
In warfare and statecraft, propaganda is not a new phenomenon, but social media and now artificial intelligence have propelled it to an unprecedented level of sophistication and scale. With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), propaganda can be generated, distributed and tailored to specific audiences and contexts, with minimal human intervention and oversight. AI can also be used to create fake or manipulated content, such as videos, images and texts, that are indistinguishable from reality. These techniques are known as generative AI or deep fakes. These are not assumptions only, there has been cases of this growing trend of using AI along with social media by various actors in different parts of the world.
Some examples of how social media and AI are used for propaganda warfare are:
– In 2023, Venezuelan state media outlets used Synthesia, a company that produces custom deepfakes, to create AI-generated videos of news anchors from a non-existent international English-language channel, spreading pro-government messages.
– In the United States, AI-manipulated videos and images of political leaders circulated on social media, depicting President Biden making transphobic comments and Donald Trump hugging Anthony Fauci.
– In 2023, the U.S. government waged psychological warfare on the nation by adopting fake social media identities and AI-created profile pictures to target and capture potential suspects.
– In 2023, Ukraine became a living lab for AI warfare, as Russian-backed separatists used AI to generate disinformation and propaganda on social media platforms, targeting Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.
– In 2023, ISIS used AI to boost its online recruitment efforts, creating personalized messages and content for potential sympathizers and recruits.
These examples show how social media and AI are reshaping propaganda and disinformation operations in modern warfare. They pose serious challenges to democracy, security and human rights. They also raise ethical and legal questions about the responsibility and accountability of the actors involved, as well as the regulation and verification of online content.
In Pakistan’s context, evidences of extensive use of AI by anti-state organizations are not available, so far, however social media platforms now began offering AI enabled tools. And it is only a matter of time when we will witness manifold increase in anti-state propaganda both in terms of frequency and sophistication. Pakistani state needs counter measures in advance and the nation needs to be aware of this new era of falsehood.
To counter these threats, government, civil society and the private sector should start working together to develop effective strategies and solutions. Some possible measures are:
– Enhancing digital literacy and critical thinking skills among the public, especially the youth, to help them identify and resist propaganda and disinformation.
– Pakistan must raise voice on diplomatic channels for transparency and accountability of social media platforms and AI developers, by requiring them to disclose their sources, methods and algorithms, as well as to monitor and flag harmful or misleading content.
– Developing technical tools and standards for detecting and verifying online content, such as digital watermarks, blockchain-based authentication and independent fact-checking organizations. Government must encourage and support private sector to invest and introduce new social media platforms with infrastructure within Pakistan.
– Pakistan’s foreign policy must strive for strengthening international cooperation and dialogue among stakeholders, by sharing best practices, exchanging information and building trust. China can help Pakistan in this area.
Social media and AI have transformed the nature of modern warfare. They have also created new opportunities for dialogue, participation and empowerment. It is up to us to use them wisely and responsibly.
HASSAN SAJID
Recently, Pakistan has grappled with myriad of challenges arising from the presence of illegal immigrants within its borders. The issues range from security concerns to economic burdens and conflicts, prompting the Pakistani state to reassess its policies. In response to these challenges, Pakistan has opted to deport illegal immigrants, accentuating the significance of all individuals residing with in the country adhering to laws of the land.
Pakistan’s approach towards illegal immigrants is being manifested by several circles as inappropriate and against the established human rights standards. European and other Western countries have also been contending with the influx of emigrants and refugees for years. However, these countries prioritize due process, ensuring that individuals have the opportunity to present their cases for asylum or other legal remedies.
The practice of not allowing illegal immigrants to stay in a country is a global norm that Pakistan has chosen to adhere to. This approach aligns with international standards and exemplifies the commitment to maintaining the rule of law within its borders. The public response to the deportation of illegal immigrants indicates that the people of Pakistan, along with the government, stand united on this issue.
Contrary to the expectations, the deportation of illegal immigrants has not sparked widespread resentment among the Pakistani population, especially Pashtuns. The public and government are on the same page, recognizing the necessity of implementing stringent measures to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration. The collective support for the deportation emphasizes the unity between the state and its citizens for a significant period of time, Pakistan upheld leniency in imposing strict laws and regulations against immigrants. This leniency led to various problems, including security threats, economic strains, and conflicts arising from the lack of adherence to laws and order. Recognizing the need for change, the Pakistani state has initiated a policy to deport all illegal immigrants, encompassing individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as Chinese, Iranian, and the largest population from Afghanistan.
While the policy has been misconstrued as a targeted expulsion of undocumented Afghans, it is essential to dispel this notion. No country, including Pakistan, permits illegal immigrants to reside within its borders unchecked. The Pakistani state’s decision to enforce its laws is not discriminatory; instead, it is a commitment to impose legal protocols uniformly to all immigrants, regardless of their nationality.
safeguarding national interests.
Pakistan’s decision to deport about two million undocumented immigrants, with a substantial number having fled after the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, has drawn criticism from various quarters. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, represented by spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, expressed deep concern about the potential human rights violations awaiting these individuals upon their return to Afghanistan. The risks include arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, and inhuman treatment.
Amnesty International, echoing these concerns, highlighted that more than 1.4 million undocumented Afghan refugees are at imminent risk of deportation from Pakistan, terming it a violation of their human rights. This raises serious questions about the safety, welfare, and access to basic services for those repatriated.
Meanwhile, Malala Yousfzai, Pakistani activist for female education and Nobel Peace laureate, said that undocumented refugees deserve support, dignity, and safety, not further obstacles and harassment.
It is crucial to distinguish the deportation of illegal immigrants from the hosting of refugees by Pakistan for several decades. The state has provided extensive services, allowing millions of Afghani refugees to live normal lives alongside Pakistani citizens. These refugees are not restricted to camps and still enjoys full freedom of movement nationwide. Pakistan’s hospitality towards Afghan refugees demonstrates a nuanced approach, differentiating between those seeking refuge and those residing illegally.
As Pakistan stands firm on its decision to deport illegal immigrants, particularly Afghan refugees, the delicate balance between national interests and human rights remains at the forefront of the debate. The international community’s concerns, expressed by organizations likethe UN and Amnesty International, alongside voices like Malala Yousfzai’s, underscore the need for thoughtful and humane considerations in dealing with the complex issue of mass deportation. The coming weeks will likely reveal this policy’s impacts on the affected individuals and Pakistan’s standing in the global community.
In a significant policy shift, Pakistan has issued a directive requiring all undocumented immigrants, encompassing a substantial 1.7 million Afghans, Iranian, Chinese, and other undocumented individuals to vacate the country by 1st November. After facing huge issues including economic, security issues, and other Territories concerns, the government of Pakistan has underscored its commitment to conduct mass deportations for individuals who fail to comply with the imposed deadline, signalling a decisive move to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration.
Pakistan’s decision to deport illegal immigrants is a reflection of its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the security and prosperity of its citizens. Drawing inspiration from global norms, particularly European countries, Pakistan is navigating the complex immigration issue pragmatically. The deportation policy is not an act of discrimination against any specific nationality but a concerted effort to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration. As an independent country, Pakistan underscores the importance of individuals, regardless of their background, adhering to its laws and orders for the nation’s collective well-being.
In 2023, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) militancy landscape resembled the pre-2014 era, marked by heightened volatility. Unlike the pre-2014 period, the recent upsurge has different roots. Following the imposition of the National Action Plan (NAP), Pakistan Security Forces eradicated terrorism through military operations, eliminating terrorists. This success brought relief to the people, especially in KP, until August 2021—the fall of Kabul. With the Afghan Taliban (Imarat-e-Islami Afghanistan, IIA) assuming control of Afghanistan, Pakistan faces a resurgence of the same menace.
Following Operation Radd Ul Fasad, Zarb-e-Azab and various other impactful military operations, the remaining militant groups including Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) along with its leadership relocated to Afghanistan. There they aligned with Afghan Taliban and fought against American forces. Despite the commitments made by Afghan Interim government under Doha agreement, assuring the world that Afghan soil would not be used against any other country. Nonetheless; feeling indebted, the Afghan Taliban are now reluctant to take action against TTP and other militants’ organization conducting terrorist activities within Pakistan from their safe sanctuaries in the bordering areas of Afghanistan. Not only Pakistan, but this reluctance and hostile position of Tehrik-e-Taliban Afghanistan (TTA) led Afghan government also irked other of its neighbours.
Two years have passed since Taliban takeover of Kabul. But despite the optimistic expectations from Pakistani state and people, cross-border terrorism is escalating day-by-day posing a substantial threat to Pakistan’s national security, stability and lives of its citizens and security forces. The southern districts of Pakistan, in close proximity to Afghanistan frontiers, bear most of the brunt of this cross-border terrorism.
The attack on a military post in Daraban in district DI Khan on the night of December 10 and 11, 2023, claimed by the Tehrik e Jihad e Pakistan (TJP), underscores the urgency addressing of cross-border terrorism. Since August 15, (fall of Kabul), DI Khan alone has experienced 63 militant attacks leading to approximately 125 casualties, primarily among Security Forces which represent a sharp contrast to the year before 2021. Not only DI Khan but also its adjoining southern districts witnessed a significant surge in militant attacks.
The conspicuous inference from the high-profiled attacks by militants, using sophisticated weaponry and gadgets, suggests perpetrators’ backing from a superior force. The evidences point towards the safe haven of militants in Afghanistan. This raises significant concerns and questions about the Afghan interim government’s conduct and its priorities regarding regional stability and future prospects of its relations with its immediate neighbours, especially Pakistan.
The responsibility of DI Khan attack has been claimed by Tehreek Jehad-e-Pakistan (TJP) which is a cover name employed by TTP to conceal its Afghan connection as TJP is portraying itself as Pakistan-based organization. However; fact remains, they are indeed part of TTP and are operating from Afghanistan.
So far, TJP took credit for seven of the deadliest attacks with in Pakistan mostly carried out against Pakistan Security forces. The pattern strongly suggests an agenda against Pakistan and indicates its links with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan residing in Afghanistan. Despite denials of collaboration by both the militant organizations, this consistent pattern of manipulation reflects a deliberate strategy to avoid public acknowledgment of their alliance.
The recent attacks serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing terrorism threat, posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region. Despite Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to combat terrorism, there is skepticism about the likelihood of the current administration in Kabul addressing Pakistan’s legitimate concerns. The perceived reluctance of the Kabul government to address these concerns not only fosters uncertainty but also provides an opportunity for Pakistan’s traditional adversaries to undermine its national morale. Surge in militant activities amid preparations for the upcoming general elections (8 Feb 2024) also raises concerns. Taking security actions against perpetrators within our western neighbor’s borders could be exploited for propaganda, potentially disrupting the democratic process during this crucial time. This will also allow other hostile countries including India to exploit diplomatic opportunities and portray Pakistan negatively.
The Afghan Taliban’s failure to uphold their commitments demands a proactive diplomatic approach from Pakistan. A robust strategy should focus on a quid pro quo: international recognition of the IEA regime in exchange for verifiable actions against TTP and its splinter groups on Afghan soil. Additionally, Pakistan should advocate for a multilateral, inclusive government in Kabul. Pakistan’s move to repatriate illegal Afghan refugees is a positive step, especially when faced with Afghanistan’s apparent disinterest in mutual cooperation and regional stability. Pakistan should also engage with Afghan Interim government using formal channels regarding the issues of cross-border terrorism threats, border security, biliteral trade.
The trajectory of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations in the future hinges on a multitude of factors. Primarily, the pivotal determinant is the extent to which Afghanistan takes concrete steps to assuage Pakistan’s concerns related to cross-border terrorism. This involves a proactive approach in containing militant entities, particularly the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and preventing the use of Afghan territory as a base for launching attacks against Pakistan. Beyond security considerations, the prospects of a positive bilateral relationship are intrinsically tied to collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing communication, fostering trust, and promoting economic cooperation. The diplomatic landscape will significantly ben efit from a multifaceted approach that addresses these core issues, ultimately paving the way for a more stable and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations.
