PAK-AFGHAN STALEMATE: SEARCH FOR RAPPROCHEMENT

Abstract

The 9/11 syndrome, besides confronting the world with the worst security scenario, brought both Pakistan and Afghanistan in direct confrontation with each other. Pakistan’s internal security dynamics have not suffered to such an extent during the last eight decades as was witnessed in the post-9/11 scenario where Pakistan, besides facing threats from the western border as well, has also to keep a vigilant eye on the internal security parameters too. Tension got escalated between both Pakistan and Afghanistan particularly during the recent four years when the Afghan Taliban retook Afghanistan in the aftermath of the US withdrawal. Both the states have to face direct confrontation of the security agencies resulting in the closure of the Pak-Afghan border placing the business and trade of the two states at jeopardy. The global actors have also shown their concern regarding the resolution of the Afghan security situation as security of the neighboring countries and the regional actors remain associated with the political stability of Afghanistan. This article explores the Pak-Afghan stalemate and the search of rapprochement between the two states. Main findings of the study emphasize the need for the normalization of relations, improvement of confidence building measures between the two states, creation of mutual trust and proper management of the Pak-Afghan border can lead to an atmosphere of friendly and amicable relations.