Former Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan says that the threat of cross-border terrorism, especially from the TTP, is real and should not be ignored. Asif Durrani emphasized that, on the other hand, the concerns of the Afghan Taliban regarding the survival of their government, civilian casualties, the expulsion of migrants, and economic pressures are also genuine.
In a post on the social media platform X on Thursday, Mr. Durrani wrote: “Neither side will achieve peace and stability through airstrikes, exchanging accusations, or closing borders.”
Referring to the geographic, trade, religious, ethnic, and historical ties between Afghanistan and Pakistan, he wrote that continued confrontation would strengthen militant networks, deepen mistrust, and further destabilize the region.
The former Pakistani representative said the solution lies in sustained dialogue, intelligence sharing, border coordination, economic engagement, and the creation of verifiable and mutually acceptable counterterrorism mechanisms. According to him, China and other regional stakeholders can play a facilitating role, but ultimately it is Islamabad and the Taliban who must choose cooperation over coercion.
He added that at a time when the Islamic Republic of Iran is under attacks by the United States and Israel, it was expected that Kabul and Islamabad would adopt a common position for regional peace and stability, but that did not happen.
Mr. Durrani stressed that a stable Afghanistan is in Pakistan’s interest, and a peaceful Pakistan is also beneficial for Afghanistan. He said there is no sustainable path other than bilateral engagement and practical counterterrorism mechanisms to reduce border tensions.
Pakistani officials have repeatedly warned in recent years about the consequences of the continuation of Taliban rule if support for the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan continues.
Writer:Salima Hakimi
