Afghan politician Abdullah Abdullah, who is currently the Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation leading peace talks with Afghan Taliban, has concluded a three-day visit to Pakistan. This was his first visit in nearly a decade and the mood was a more sombre as both sides reaffirmed support for the Afghan peace process.
Abdullah’s visit, in which he met the civil and military leadership, is being seen as a major shift in his approach towards Pakistan. He was the friend of Ahmed Shah Massoud who led the Northern Alliance during the Soviet war and were the sworn enemies of the Taliban. He had declined several invitations and has been a fierce critic of Pakistan’s alleged covert support for terror groups.
This time around the mood was a difference as he stated that both countries have suffered immensely from the war against terrorism. He said that all institutions in Pakistan are on the same page with regards to peace in Afghanistan which was in the interest of both countries. He stated that he was concluding his visit with a “very positive impression and hope in his heart”.
What has brought about the change in Abdullah’s attitude shift towards Pakistan? Partly it is because the Afghan government and Taliban are on the same sides of the negotiating table. The talks are gaining momentum but the main sticking point is the form of governance. Abdullah also realises that Pakistan have a huge role and can help sway the peace process.
Peace in Afghanistan still remains distant as there has been no reduction in violence or any effort towards a ceasefire. Abdullah also doesn’t want to give the impression that the Afghans are divided as his political tussle with President Ashraf Ghani is not over but both agree that democracy must be preserved in the country. Abdullah may not be president but he also wants peace as well as retaining the current system.
Abdullah’s excursion to Pakistan was rather productive and fruitful. A message was given that Kabul and Islamabad should let bygones aside and look towards a new era. Relations between sides have rocky but the overall mood this time was a lot positive which gave hope that peace within the region is within reach.
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