SHARED ethnic, cultural and geopolitical factors have profoundly shaped Pakistan’s historical ties with Afghanistan.

However, recent decades have witnessed a steady erosion of Pakistan’s strategic influence, creating space for other regional powers, particularly India, to expand their diplomatic presence significantly.

Understanding this historical trajectory, the reasons behind Pakistan’s marginalized role and formulating comprehensive strategies to regain influence are crucial.

Since its independence in 1947, Pakistan has exercised considerable influence over Afghan affairs, rooted in common ethnicities and strategic cooperation.

This influence peaked during the Soviet-Afghan war (1979-1989), positioning Pakistan as a critical ally of the United States, coordinating significant logistical and military support to Afghan Mujahideen groups.

Following the Soviet withdrawal, Pakistan’s influence deepened further by backing the Taliban during Afghanistan’s civil war in the 1990s, securing Islamabad’s strategic interests and promoting its policy of “strategic depth”, which sure was crucial for the national security.

Pakistan was applauded by not only Afghans but also the whole world for hosting the most significant number of Afghan immigrants for the longest time.

Pakistan’s influential position began to reduce significantly after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan post-9/11.

Islamabad’s historical ties to the Taliban and allegations of supporting insurgent elements severely strained relations with Western allies, especially the United States.

This breakdown in trust resulted in a decreased diplomatic role for Pakistan, intensified by successive Afghan governments under Presidents Hamid Karzai and Ashraf Ghani, who openly criticized Pakistan for supporting militancy.

Simultaneously, international presence and........

© Pakistan Observer