Expert Urges Pakistan to Reassess Its Approach to Afghanistan

Abdullah Khan, a Pakistani security analyst, has criticized the policies of the Islamabad government towards Afghanistan, emphasizing the inefficacy of this approach. He also views the recent Moscow format meeting as a sign of regional countries’ willingness to engage with Kabul.

Criticism of Pakistan’s Policies Toward Afghanistan

Abdullah Khan, the head of the Pakistan Institute of Conflict and Security Studies, highlighted in a critical note the government’s aggressive stance towards Afghanistan, asserting that these positions have faced negative reactions domestically and lack support at the regional level.

In his commentary posted on social media platform X, he referenced the outcomes of the recent “Moscow Format” meeting, which he argued clearly demonstrated regional powers’ inclination for constructive and moderate engagement with the interim government in Kabul. Notably, the meeting concluded without a joint declaration due to differing views on terrorism-related narratives.

Background of Tensions and the Need for Reevaluation

Khan further stated that Pakistan’s ongoing antagonism towards neighboring countries could ultimately harm its own interests. He pointed out that while Islamabad attempts to expand its influence in the Middle East through defense agreements with Saudi Arabia, it is gradually losing its standing among neighboring nations.

The senior analyst stressed the urgent need for fundamental reevaluation and immediate revision of Islamabad’s current policies toward Afghanistan, warning that the continuation of such a situation may result in irreparable consequences for Pakistan.