Pakistan-Afghanistan relations involve bilateral relations between both countries. The two neighboring Asian states share deep historical and cultural links; each has declared itself an Islamic republic and both have become members of the South Asian Association for Regional cooperation. Relations between the two countries have been strained since 1947 when Pakistan first formed and Afghanistan was the sole country to vote against Pakistan’s admission into the UN.
Pakistan seeks stability in Afghanistan, which is not possible owing to the Indian link’s presence there. Hence, Pakistan has legitimate concerns in Afghanistan. So, by showing a realistic approach, the US and other western countries should realize that, unlike India, Pakistan shares common geographical, historical, religious, and cultural bonds with Afghanistan, while Pak-Afghan stability is inter-related, which is also essential for their global and regional interests.
Restoring complete peace is a lengthy process but it becomes lengthier when a country shares a porous border with a neighboring state where there is no state authority at all. It is said that “good fences make good neighbors”. And it is really true in the case of Pak-Afghan border management. Management of the Pak-Afghan Border is the dire need of time for long-lasting peace not only in Pakistan but also in the whole of Afghanistan.
Pakistan is a peace-loving country and still continues to play a positive role in bringing about enduring peace and stability in the region. Public of both countries Pak-Afghan emphasized that peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan is a shared interest. Pakistan is playing a positive role and is ready to work closely with Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s willingness to resolve issue of infiltration across the Pak-Afghan border, and terrorism, and to invest in the development of social sectors like health and education in Afghanistan shows its peaceful diplomacy because peace is benefited both countries. The Pak-Afghan bilateral border security mechanism is critically important for both countries and Pakistan did on this aspect but now the first requirement is that both countries form a joint agreement regarding border control/management measures because without the support of both countries they cannot strengthen its region and eradicate terrorism and militancy from the region.
