Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist, Diplomat, Editor, Analyst, Consultant, Advisor, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG. (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).

Since the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 15 August 2021, the divergence of interests between the West, particularly the United States, and the Taliban regime has become starkly evident. The West, driven by its own geopolitical and ideological agendas, has taken numerous measures to undermine the Taliban's authority and stability, causing significant harm to Afghanistan as a whole.

Western Measures to Undermine the Taliban:

Economic Sanctions and Asset Freezes: The United States and its Western allies have imposed severe economic sanctions on the Taliban regime. These sanctions include freezing billions of dollars in Afghan central bank reserves held in foreign banks, primarily in the U.S. This action has crippled Afghanistan's economy, leading to a severe liquidity crisis, which in turn has exacerbated poverty and hunger among the Afghan population.

International Isolation: The West has largely refused to recognize the Taliban regime diplomatically, isolating Afghanistan on the international stage. This isolation has hindered Afghanistan's ability to engage in international trade and attract foreign investment, further strangling the country's economic prospects.

Humanitarian Aid Conditionalities: While humanitarian aid has been provided, the West has often tied it to conditions that the Taliban regime finds unacceptable, such as demands for significant political and social reforms. These conditions have slowed the delivery of essential aid, worsening the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

Support for Opposition Groups: There are reports that Western countries have provided covert support to various opposition groups within Afghanistan. This support aims to destabilize the Taliban regime and foster internal dissent, contributing to ongoing violence and instability.

Media and Propaganda Campaigns: The West has engaged in extensive media and propaganda campaigns to delegitimize the Taliban regime. These campaigns often highlight human rights abuses and governance failures, shaping global public opinion against the Taliban and justifying continued punitive measures.

Harm Caused to Afghanistan:

The cumulative impact of these measures has been devastating for Afghanistan. The economic sanctions and asset freezes have led to widespread unemployment, hyperinflation, and a collapse in public services. Millions of Afghans are now facing acute food insecurity, with malnutrition rates soaring, particularly among children.

The international isolation and conditional humanitarian aid have left Afghanistan without the necessary resources to rebuild its infrastructure or provide basic services to its people. The support for opposition groups has perpetuated violence and instability, preventing the establishment of a secure and peaceful environment.

Criticism of Western Policies:

The West's approach to the Taliban regime has been marked by a cruel and punitive attitude that has prioritized geopolitical objectives over the well-being of the Afghan people. By imposing severe economic restrictions, the West has effectively punished the entire Afghan population for the actions of their rulers. This collective punishment has led to unnecessary suffering and hardship.

Furthermore, the refusal to recognize the Taliban regime and engage constructively has closed off avenues for dialogue and negotiation that could potentially lead to more moderate and stable governance in Afghanistan. Instead, the West's policies have created a vicious cycle of instability and suffering, undermining any prospects for lasting peace.

Taliban Regime's Achievements and Developments Over the Last Three Years

Since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan on 15 August 2021, they have faced significant challenges, including international isolation, economic sanctions, and a devastated infrastructure. Despite these hurdles, the Taliban regime has made noteworthy achievements in several areas, contributing to stability and development across the country.

1. Stability and Law Enforcement:

One of the most significant achievements of the Taliban regime has been the restoration of stability and the enforcement of law and order across Afghanistan. The Taliban have successfully established control over the entire country, reducing the widespread violence that plagued Afghanistan for decades. Crime rates have dropped significantly, as the Taliban have enforced strict laws and regulations, leading to a more secure environment for ordinary Afghans.

2. Economic Developments:

Despite facing severe economic sanctions and limited access to international markets, the Taliban have managed to achieve some remarkable economic developments. They have focused on revitalizing key sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture, which remains the backbone of Afghanistan's economy. Agricultural production has increased, with efforts to improve irrigation systems and provide support to farmers, resulting in better crop yields and food security.

3. Social Welfare:

The Taliban have also taken steps to address social welfare issues, focusing on supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, widows, and the elderly. They have implemented social welfare programs to provide basic assistance to those in need, helping to alleviate some of the hardships faced by the Afghan population.

Challenges and Ongoing Efforts:

Despite these achievements, the Taliban regime continues to face significant challenges, including international isolation, economic difficulties, and ongoing concerns about human rights and inclusivity. However, with limited resources, the Taliban are making concerted efforts to overcome these challenges and build a more stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations

Pakistan and Afghanistan share deep historical, cultural, and geographical ties that have shaped their relationship over the years. Despite occasional challenges, the two countries have significant areas of convergence, leading to a relationship rooted in mutual interests and cooperation.

1. Shared Cultural and Historical Ties:

Pakistan and Afghanistan are bound by centuries of shared history, culture, and traditions. Both nations have deep ethnic, linguistic, and religious connections, with Pashtuns living on both sides of the border serving as a bridge between the two countries. These shared cultural ties foster a sense of brotherhood and understanding, which underpins their relationship.

2. Economic Cooperation:

Economic collaboration is a key area of convergence between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan is one of Afghanistan's largest trading partners, with the two countries engaging in cross-border trade that benefits both economies. The construction of trade routes and infrastructure projects, such as the Pakistan-Afghanistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), facilitates the flow of goods and services, contributing to economic growth and stability in the region.

3. Peace and Security:

Both Pakistan and Afghanistan have a vested interest in ensuring peace and stability in the region. A stable Afghanistan is crucial for Pakistan's security, as cross-border challenges such as terrorism and militancy directly impact both nations. Pakistan has consistently supported peace initiatives in Afghanistan, including facilitating dialogue between various Afghan factions. The two countries share a commitment to combating extremism and working towards a peaceful and prosperous region.

4. Refugee Support and Humanitarian Assistance:

Pakistan has been a generous host to millions of Afghan refugees over the past several decades. This humanitarian gesture has strengthened the bond between the two nations. Pakistan continues to provide support and assistance to Afghan refugees, including access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. This long-standing support underscores Pakistan's commitment to the well-being of the Afghan people.

5. Infrastructure and Connectivity:

Pakistan and Afghanistan are working together to enhance regional connectivity through infrastructure projects. Initiatives such as the development of highways, rail links, and energy pipelines are designed to connect the two countries and beyond, facilitating trade, travel, and economic integration. These projects not only benefit Pakistan and Afghanistan but also contribute to the broader regional development agenda.

6. Diplomatic Engagement:

Diplomatic efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan have focused on fostering dialogue and cooperation. Regular high-level meetings and consultations have helped to address bilateral issues and promote mutual understanding. Both countries are committed to resolving differences through peaceful means and enhancing their relationship based on mutual respect and shared interests.

Pakistan’s Concerns Over TTP and the Use of Afghan Soil for Terrorism

Pakistan has long faced the challenge of terrorism, with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) being one of the most significant threats to its security. Pakistan is particularly concerned that the TTP is using Afghan territory as a base to launch terrorist attacks against Pakistan. This situation poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s internal security and stability, leading to a heightened sense of urgency in addressing this issue.

1. TTP's Presence in Afghanistan:

The presence of TTP militants on Afghan soil is a major concern for Pakistan. Despite efforts to combat terrorism within its own borders, Pakistan has observed an increase in cross-border attacks originating from Afghanistan. These attacks not only result in the loss of lives but also destabilize the border regions, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

2. Pakistan's Desire for Concrete Measures:

Pakistan has consistently urged the Taliban government in Afghanistan to take concrete steps to curb the activities of the TTP and other militant groups using Afghan territory to target Pakistan. Islamabad has expressed its desire for the Afghan authorities to dismantle terrorist safe havens, cut off their support networks, and prevent their movement across the border. Pakistan believes that only through decisive action can the cycle of violence be broken and long-term peace and security be achieved.

3. Diplomatic Engagement and Cooperation:

The governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan are in close contact, engaging in diplomatic dialogues to address the issue of cross-border terrorism. These discussions reflect a mutual understanding of the need to cooperate in combating terrorism, which poses a threat to both nations. Pakistan remains committed to working with the Taliban government to find a lasting solution to this problem, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in countering terrorism.

Pakistan believes that a stable and secure Afghanistan is in the best interest of the entire region. By addressing the issue of terrorism, both countries can further strengthen their bilateral relations and work towards mutual peace and prosperity. Pakistan hopes that the Taliban government will take all possible measures to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for any activities that harm Pakistan. This will not only contribute to Pakistan’s safety but also enhance the trust and cooperation between the two neighbors.

Pakistan is deeply concerned about the use of Afghan soil by the TTP to launch terrorist attacks. Islamabad desires that the Taliban government take effective and sustained action to eliminate this threat. Both governments are working closely to overcome this challenge, with the shared goal of ensuring regional peace and security while strengthening the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)