Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar recently highlighted concerns about the presence of TTP members participating in negotiations in Kabul two years ago. He emphasized the responsibility of Afghan Taliban in either handing over TTP members to Pakistan or taking action against them. This stance reflects a genuine desire for a constructive resolution to the issue.
The Afghan Transitional Government should adhere to the Doha Agreement, especially the clause preventing such activities. Questions arise regarding the interim government’s control over terrorist groups in Afghanistan. If lacking control or military power, what implications does this hold?
Various terrorist groups, including Al-Qaeda, Daesh Khorasan, and TTP, have initiated operations in Pakistan, often using Afghanistan as a base. The lack of action by the Afghan government against TTP within its borders raises suspicions of possible ulterior motives to destabilize Pakistan.
Despite Pakistan’s extensive efforts to support peace initiatives and the establishment of the Taliban government, tensions persist along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. This raises doubts about the safety of the border for Pakistan and the motivations of the Afghan government’s decision-makers.
There’s speculation about financial interests driving the Afghan ruling class, potentially compromising a system built on holding the powerful accountable. Terrorist operations in Pakistan, often involving sophisticated weaponry, coincide with increased security measures on the Pak-Afghan border, hinting at a pattern.
The Afghan government’s verbal assurances initially seemed promising, but recent months have shown a shift in their stance, placing blame solely on Pakistan. Meanwhile, TTP operatives find refuge in Afghanistan, equipped with advanced weaponry left behind by US forces.
The Afghan government’s lack of accountability regarding TTP’s access to sophisticated weapons remains unaddressed. Social media from Afghanistan exhibits hostility towards Pakistan, including mockery of its currency and threats. The conduct of Afghanistan’s cricket team further emphasizes strained relations.
There’s a need to curb smuggling activities harming Pakistan’s economy, exacerbated by certain privileged factions within the country. Despite heavy casualties and financial losses suffered by Pakistan’s security agencies due to militant attacks, the Afghan government evades responsibility, urging Islamabad to handle the issue alone.
TTP’s activities negatively impact both countries, as terrorists move freely across the border, inflicting harm and returning to Afghanistan unchecked. Afghan authorities must acknowledge their responsibility in such state affairs, emphasizing the need for mutual cooperation.
The connection between Afghan Taliban and TTP is suggested as two sides of the same coin, a misconception possibly orchestrated by influential groups in Pakistan. While steps are taken to repatriate illegal Afghan residents in Pakistan, the expectation is for the Taliban government to reciprocate by handing over TTP operatives in Afghanistan.
The Afghan government’s inaction or lack of intent to address this issue raises concerns not only for Pakistan’s government but also its security agencies. The perpetuation of this situation could strain the historically close ties between the two nations.
It’s crucial for the Kabul government to understand the significance of harmonious relations with neighboring countries. Unilateral policies rarely yield positive global outcomes, and the repercussions of such approaches may affect both nations adversely.