CHIEF of Afghanistan’s High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah has said Pakistani leaders had ‘promised’ during his three-day visit to Islamabad this week to help convince the Afghan Taliban to agree to a ceasefire, a major sticking point in ongoing negotiations between the insurgent group and the Kabul government aimed at ending decades of war. Taliban offensives in the war-torn country have continued even as Afghan and Taliban negotiators began meeting in Doha on September 12, hoping to agree on a ceasefire and a power-sharing deal.
Dr. Abdullah, who otherwise remains skeptical of Pakistan’s posture, seems to be satisfied with the outcome of his visit to Islamabad where he held extensive talks both with the civilian and military leadership of the country. The visit was obviously aimed at seeking Pakistan’s support at securing more concessions from Taliban, who have been brought to the negotiating table because of hectic behind-the-scene efforts of Pakistan. Dr Abdullah claimed that both civilian and military leaders of Pakistan have agreed that the key to peace in Afghanistan was the Taliban agreeing to a “reduction in violence, leading to a ceasefire.” This seems to be a difficult proposition as Taliban want to use their military victories and successes as pressure tactic and bargaining chip in the process of dialogue. There is no doubt that continuation of offensives from either side vitiates the atmosphere for talks and provides opportunity to spoilers to undermine the process. In the backdrop of mutual suspicion and distrust, it would be difficult to invoke immediate ceasefire without making visible progress on fundamental agenda items of the talks. However, by agreeing to extend a helping hand, Pakistan has once again demonstrated that it has a genuine interest in restoration of durable peace in Afghanistan. As intra-Afghan dialogue has opened historic window to peace in Afghanistan, we hope all stakeholders would strive their best to make the process a success for the sake of regional peace and prosperity.
