The Islamabad-Kabul relationship is currently at an all-time low as Pakistan experiences an uptick in terrorist attacks and holds Afghanistan accountable for providing a safe haven to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). To be sure, given their geographical proximity as well as shared cultural, ethnic, linguistic, and religious affinities, Pakistan and Afghanistan have always maintained a fundamentally complex yet interdependent bilateral relationship. Despite brief intervals of stability, historical ties between the two countries have been strained and uneasy at best, and the current circumstances remain no different.

The roots of these strained relations lie in historical bilateral irritants, primarily centered on Afghanistan’s non-acceptance of the border, unfulfilled expectations on both sides, and the fact that both have viewed the relationship largely through a security-focused lens. Consequently, other contours of the bilateral relationship have failed to evolve, resulting in the limited nature of the relationship. However, their ties are now at a crossroads—both sides would have to face truths and current realities to create pathways for a holistic bilateral reassessment if they want a stable long-term relationship. 

Impact of TTP’s Resurgence on the Bilateral Relationship

When the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, Pakistan played a significant role in the evacuation process and in engaging with the Taliban regime, resulting in several bilateral visits and an increase in trade. However, the relationship once again became a casualty of deep-rooted grievances, primarily driven by unmet security expectations and ongoing concerns over the presence of terrorist groups such as the TTP. The first reported attack by the TTP since the Taliban took over occurred on August 27, targeting a military post in Lower Dir District, where one Pakistani soldier was killed.

The TTP’s resurgence has not only amplified security challenges for Pakistan but has further strained the already fragile bilateral relationship with Afghanistan. Islamabad sees the Taliban’s approach as rather indifferent and callous in effectively curbing the TTP’s activities, thus deepening Pakistan’s frustration.

These unresolved issues, coupled with a persistent lack of trust, have consistently undermined efforts to build a more stable and multifaceted bilateral relationship. It is important to recognize that unless a concerted effort is made by Kabul and Islamabad to address these irritants, the relationship will remain strained, regardless of which political party or group holds power on both sides. 

The legality of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, often referred to as the “Durand Line,” is a settled issue and accepted as a recognized border by the international community. However, successive Afghan governments,’ including the Taliban regime’s, reluctance to accept the border, and its subsequent mismanagement and exploitation by militant groups has made it a contentious issue, further exacerbating bilateral tensions with Islamabad. While........

© South Asian Voices