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Why Afghans hate Pakistan!
At the risk of annoying many in both countries, herewith I am venturing to put down in black and white as to what bedevils Pak-Afghan relations and why most Afghans dislike, if not hate, Pakistan. Continued state of conflict has given birth to a sense of deprivation as well as an inferiority complex which often manifests itself on occasions such as recent cricket encounters in Sri Lanka , where most Afghan players displayed immaturity and hyped-up emotions that bordered hostility and abuse. I will try to explain the reasons below with the hope that top leadership is aware of this context while attempting to mend, improve and develop relations in a difficult geopolitical environment. Before entry into the Kandahar airport building, you can be randomly asked for your passport and visa. As I got off the car to head into the airport building, I was directed to a bull of a man – with a stern face. First he asked for travel documents of a religious cleric born in Chaman but with extended family relations and businesses in Kandahar. He held the cleric’s one-page document – strangely holding it in a way that betrayed his ignorance – for some time, returned it and then asked me for passport. He flipped through visa pages repeatedly. The security assistant browsed the passport too for a while. “What are you looking for?” I couldn’t resist asking after a few minutes. The security guy looked at me again and kept playing with the passport. It reminded me of the Asharf Ghani and Hamid Karzai days when security officials used to put Pakistanis to extra scrutiny, confronting them with suspicion and hostile looks. It would invariably happen either at the entry or exit – the special treatment to Pakistanis, the nearest enemy “responsible for Afghanistan’s ills.” Intelligence officials had a long “interrogation” session with two clerics from Chaman inside the terminal before the flight to Kabul. Lo and behold, when we disembarked from the bus at Kabul airport, an official with a...
Afghanistan: The Modern Concept of Independence
Achieving complete independence for a country can be challenging in the presence of poverty, reliance on external aid, lack of women’s education, and an unrepresentative government. It is crucial to critically analyze the historical events and broader geopolitical factors that have shaped Afghanistan’s past and present, in order to better understand the multifaceted challenges faced by this country. The concept of independence has undergone significant evolution over time, and in the context of Afghanistan, independence holds deep-rooted historical significance. This country gained its independence from British colonial rule in 1919, marking the beginning of a new era. At that time, independence for Afghanistan meant liberation from external control and the ability to govern its own affairs. In modern times, independence encompasses various dimensions, including political, economic, social, and cultural independence. Politically, it has evolved to reflect the idea of self-governance, national sovereignty, and the right to determine policies without external interference. Economic independence, which unfortunately we lack, refers to the ability of countries to sustain their economic well-being without being overly reliant on external factors or resources. It is achieved through a combination of factors including self-sufficiency, diversification of economic activities, and the ability to generate income and resources within their own parameters. Economically independent countries have the capacity to make autonomous decisions regarding their economic affairs. This can include having a diverse range of industries, a skilled workforce, access to resources, and robust trade and investment opportunities. Socially and culturally, independence has come to embody the preservation of Afghan identity, traditions, and values. However, it is essential to acknowledge that Afghanistan has faced numerous challenges in fully realizing these aspirations of independence. Throughout...
Media Landscape in Afghanistan – Female Journalists Hang by a Thread
As their visibility in all sectors minimizes with each passing day, Afghan women exhibit resilience and grit in the face of adversity. Journalists, artists, and students – all await a better future. Will the Taliban embrace change and empower their voices? Afghanistan, once a flourishing space for independent journalism, is now marred by closures, restrictions, and a narrowing space for female journalists. In just two years, it has witnessed a staggering decline in the number of media outlets. [1]A disconcerting count of over 300 media outlets has ceased their operations, leaving more than 5,000 journalists grappling with unemployment. [2]The World Press Freedom Index reflects Afghanistan’s plummet from 122nd in 2020 to a concerning 156th in 2022, revealing an alarming erosion of media freedom. Beyond the shuttered doors and lost jobs lie several challenges that plague the Afghan media scene. One of the most critical is the dearth of timely and accurate information. Journalists face hurdles in their pursuit of credible news, with sources often failing to provide information promptly. The landscape is also marred by a disturbing escalation of violence and backlash against journalists. Economic factors, too, have played a pivotal role in the media’s decline. Financial pressures have crippled numerous media outlets, forcing them to close down. The intricate web of challenges, including financial constraints, safety threats, and restricted access to information, has collectively cast a shadow over journalism in Afghanistan. According to figures from some groups supporting the media, after the political change in the country, 94% of female journalists have become unemployed due to restrictions on the work of female journalists, while 22 provinces currently lack any female journalists, either due to systemic challenges or security concerns. Even media outlets catering specifically to women have not been spared. A staggering 10 out of 17 such outlets have been silenced,...
Armed & dangerous
ACCORDING to discussions held in the UN Security Council recently, the multilateral body’s counterterrorism experts have raised the alarm about “Nato-calibre weapons” ending up in the hands of IS-K, through the TTP. The UN experts have rightly pointed out that these weapons pose a “serious threat in conflict zones and neighbouring countries”. What is particularly troubling is that IS-K may have access to drones with increased payloads. Pakistan should be wary about this nexus between the TTP and IS-K, as both terrorist groups have targeted this country. The Afghan Taliban, however, remain dismissive, with a spokesman saying that IS-K’s presence in Afghanistan has “been reduced to zero”. Either the Taliban are not aware of the facts on the ground in their own country, or they are being economical with the truth, as the UN contends that 20 different terrorist outfits remain active in Afghanistan. The fact is that in the aftermath of the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, American forces left a bonanza of weapons and military equipment in the country. According to testimony Pentagon officials gave to the US Congress, gear worth over $7bn, including guns, ammunition and other military equipment, was abandoned in Afghanistan as US forces shipped out. Much of this was snapped up by the Taliban, and through their ‘good offices’ has ended up with militant groups such as the TTP. Now this lethal weaponry is being accessed by IS-K, along with being sold in the black market. The Taliban need to firstly acknowledge the problem, and thereafter ensure that none of this sophisticated gear ends up in the hands of terrorist groups. Kabul’s rulers insist on being accepted by the global community. However, to gain the world’s recognition they must act like a proper government, and ensure that deadly weapons don’t make their way to militants. It was also highly irresponsible of the US to leave such high-value military gear behind. American military officials say there...
Key Points by Chinese President Xi Jinping- 15th BRICS Summit
President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech titled “Seeking Development Through Solidarity and Cooperation and Shouldering Our Responsibility for Peace” at the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug 23, 2023. Following below are some of the main points he spoke on: BRICS is an important force in shaping the international landscape. We choose our development paths independently, jointly defend our right to development, and march in tandem toward modernization. This represents the direction of the advancement of human society and will profoundly impact the development process of the world. China has consistently acted on the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, and taken BRICS cooperation to new heights in support of our five countries’ development. China has upheld fairness and justice in international affairs, stood up for what is right on major international and regional issues and enhanced the voice and influence of emerging markets and developing countries. BRICS countries invariably advocate and practice independent foreign policies. We always address major international issues based on their merits, making fair remarks and taking fair actions. BRICS countries share extensive consensus and common goals. No matter how the international situation changes, our commitment to cooperation since the very beginning and our common aspiration will not change. Help reform global governance to make it more just and equitable, and bring to the world more certainty, stability and positive energy. We should deepen business and financial cooperation to boost economic growth. Development is an inalienable right of all countries, not a privilege reserved for a few. Focus on practical cooperation, particularly in such fields as digital economy, green development, and supply chain, and bolster economic, trade and financial exchanges. China will set up a China-BRICS Science and Innovation Incubation Park for the New Era to support...
China Wishes to have Pakistan in BRICS
China is one of the leading blocs that has warmly welcomed the expansion of BRICS and showed keen interest in including more developing nations, including Pakistan, to join the group. Although Pakistan has not made any official statement regarding its membership in BRICS, it is examining the latest developments and will make a decision about future engagement with BRICS accordingly. On 23rd August 2023, leaders of BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) met in Johannesburg for a three-day summit. The discussions revolved around establishing a framework and criteria for admitting new members topping the agenda. China is one of the leading blocs that warmly welcomed the expansion of BRICS and showed keen interest in including more developing nations, including Pakistan, to join the group. China’s President Xi Jinping stated, “We should let more countries join the BRICS family to pool wisdom and efforts to make global governance more just and equitable”. (Daily Times). Xi has repeatedly called for unity among his BRICS counterparts as he pushed the case for expanding the grouping to face a global “period of turbulence and transformation.” Pakistan and China have always enjoyed warm relations. China has also initiated several investment projects in Pakistan, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and BRI that would simultaneously support the strategic interests of both countries. However, before the summit, certain Indian publications suggested that China wanted Pakistan to join the BRICS, which New Delhi would strongly oppose. Although background discussions with foreign ministry officials suggested that Pakistan is monitoring BRICS activities, it has yet to decide whether or not to join the grouping. (Express Tribune) “I think the Indian media is reading narrowly on the Chinese and Russian desire to expand the BRICS,” remarked one official while requesting anonymity. The official was of the view that BRICS first had to decide whether it...
Chinese-mediated Saudi-Iran agreement sparking a *surge of rapprochement*
‘China’s mediation led to an unexpected peace deal between long-hostile Saudi Arabia and Iran, disrupting traditional alliances. The absence of the US and China’s emergence as a major player has left Israel uncertain about its ties with Saudi Arabia. Despite positive reactions, doubts remain about the strength of the newfound Saudi-Iran connection and their planned ambassador exchange’’. A major peace agreement has happened in the Middle East, but it’s not between Israel and the Arab countries. Instead, it’s between Saudi Arabia and Iran, two nations that have remained hostile to each other for many years. Surprisingly, the deal wasn’t arranged by the United States; it was mediated by China. This turn of events has surprised people all around the world and has caused great confusion. The usual alliances and conflicts that have shaped international relations for a long time have been disrupted, at least for now. The United States has been a key player in the Middle East for the last 75 years and has usually been at the center of important events. However, in this situation, the U.S. is not actively involved and is watching from the sidelines as significant changes unfold. On the other hand, China used to have a minor role in the region, has suddenly become a major player. This shift in dynamics has made Israel uncertain about its relationship with Saudi Arabia. Israel had been trying to build closer ties with Saudi Arabia as they both have mutual concerns about Iran. Now, Israel is uncertain about how this new agreement will affect their plans. Amy Hawthorne, a deputy director at the Project on Middle East Democracy, a nonprofit organization, emphasized that this development is a significant event. She mentioned that while the United States couldn’t have made this deal with Iran due to their lack of relations, China’s accomplishment has elevated its diplomatic status and is more impressive than anything the U.S. has achieved in the region since President Biden took...
Rethinking Pakistan Economy Putting the House in Order
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) extends its sincere gratitude to the core research team members whose dedication and expertise were instrumental in this research report. We are grateful to Saddam Hussein, who provided a substantial contribution to the report as the lead author, along with his technical guidance, insights and astute expertise that deftly crafted this report. Hussein was also involved in designing the outline, methodology as well as contextualizing the themes and data. We convey our recognition with sincere thanks to Zehra Zaidi for demonstrating exceptional leadership and a remarkable aptitude for innovation as the research lead; Elsa Imdad for conducting the literature review and desk review with meticulous attention to detail and updated knowledge; Ramsha Saghir for carrying out the key informant interviews with exceptional skill and insight; and Hamid Mehmood Chouhan for conducting extensive desk research that significantly improved the findings. The Center is also grateful to the subject matter experts whose contributions greatly enhanced the quality and credibility of this report. We are deeply grateful to Zubair Faisal Abbasi, Ali Salman, Sarah Javaid, and, Haroon Sharif, whose participation in the key informant interviews provided insightful analysis and invaluable guidance throughout the research process. Finally, we extend our gratitude to Javed Hassan, for his critical input and final review of the report.
CRSS Workshop Spotlights Innovative Strategies for Community Development
The Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) hosted an interactive workshop under Global UGRAD’s community development initiative (CDI). Led by UGRAD alumna and CRSS research fellow Elsa Imdad, and facilitated by Mr. Zonaib Tahir, Assistant Professor at the Department of Management Sciences, Quaid-e-Azam University, the workshop aimed to provide Afghan refugee youth and marginalized Pakistani youth with practical insights into community development. The session delved into the concept of social enterprises, highlighting their potential role in driving sustainable community development. Various aspects of economic growth and social well-being were thoroughly explored, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of how social ventures can benefit communities. Another key theme was the importance of leadership in social innovation, emphasizing the need for strong leaders to translate ideas into impactful community projects. A participant from the Afghan refugee community noted, "The workshop gave us a clear understanding of how individual actions can contribute to larger community development goals." Participants also engaged in a brainstorming session, providing an opportunity for collaboration and idea-sharing related to community development. This activity showcased the diverse perspectives and innovative potential of the attendees. A development practitioner shared, "The brainstorming session was a practical exercise, allowing us to discuss challenges and think of potential solutions collaboratively." The diversity of the participants added depth to the discussions, with both Afghan refugees and Pakistani youth finding common objectives and aspirations. The workshop became a space for sharing, learning, and collaboration. Another Pakistani participant mentioned, "Despite our varied backgrounds, there was a shared aim: to uplift our communities. The workshop highlighted the value of working together." Summing up the spirit of the event, a...
About Time for World To Recognise Taliban Regime; Zabiullah Mujahid
August 15 marks Afghanistan’s new Independence Day. Two years ago this day, Kabul plunged into chaos and uncertainty following President Ashraf Ghani’s abrupt departure for Uzbekistan. For several hours the capital had no government, prompting the Taliban – who had been camping on the southern outskirts of Kabul as the transfer of power talks continued – decided to march in. Ironic indeed, an unprecedented return to power of a group that the US-led coalition forces had tried hard for over two decades to defeat. The Taliban interim regime celebrated the day with vows to continue with the “Islamic System” it had fought for – come what may. No diktat, no interference is acceptable. Nor should the world expect us to abandon the RIGHT PATH that we have chosen for ourselves as a result of decades of struggle. During the day both Kabul, the political capital, and Kandahar, the real power center, reverberated with the same resolve to the context of a socio-economically uneasy life across Afghanistan. Unemployment is high, inflation has begun pinching the people like never before and large sections of the female population remain confined to homes. The emirate officials have their own way of explanations for the current situation. In a meeting at his office in Kandahar, Zabihullah Mujahid , the eloquent spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate (the Taliban government), responded to a number of critical questions I posed to him on subjects such as women’s exclusion from education and work, terrorism and economic connectivity. We must look at things from our socio-political context and not necessarily from the western prism, he underlined. “By the Grace of Allah we have successfully survived for two years , this Tuesday is the day of triumph of the jihad that the people of Afghanistan that they waged against the United States and its allies.” “Now that we have demonstrated our resilience and consolidated peace, it is time for the United States and others to formally...
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I am also a member of National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. Recently, we held a meeting with the Director General of Radio Pakistan and we told them to initiate such local programs (like Constituency Hour) in regional languages to educate and inform people. Even Indian Radio can be heard in FATA which is being used for propaganda purposes and must be closed. Therefore, we should launch some standard and quality programs like CRSS that will change the taste of the listeners.