A Critical Appraisal of Pak-Afghan Relations (2001-2021)

Abstract

Bilateral relations between the two Muslim neighboring states, Pakistan and Afghanistan, have mostly remained strained and sour since Pakistan came into being in 1947. The Durand Line and the Pashtunistan issues followed by meddling in each other’s domestic politics are the historical irritants that marred the bilateral relations. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained frail in the last two decades too. After the Taliban were ousted from Power in 2001, both the neighbouring states blamed each other of intervening in their domestic affairs. Afghanistan accused Pakistan of providing safe havens to the Taliban who eventually retook Kabul in 2021 whereas Pakistan alleged Kabul of facilitating India and TTP to incite unrest in Pakistan. Sporadic border skirmishes, India’s relations with Afghanistan, Economic relations marred by smuggling and drug trade, the Afghan refugees living in Pakistan and shard waters were the other issues which blighted the bilateral relations in the last two decades. As a consequence, mistrust prevailed, the democratic regime collapsed in Afghanistan and the two states could not foster cordial bilateral relations. Therefore, sincere efforts should be made to resolve all the outstanding issues including the Durand line issue so that the mistrust and suspicion can be eradicated which will help in establishing a conducive environment for economic integration of the Af-Pak region with the Central Asian region. The research is qualitative in nature based on deductive reasoning and secondary data has been relied upon. Content Analysis tool is employed for the interpretation of the data.