Asian Research Thesis Index

Abstract

This study is a critical analysis of the Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. A variety of problems are hindering the cordial
relations of the two states. The commonalities are many but the differences are strong and rapprochement seems

difficult. The study depicts that both the states are apprehensive of each other. Mainly the non acceptance of
international border i.e. Durand Line, irredentist territorial claims and Pashtunistan issues by Afghanistan and the
perceived so called policy of strategic depth by Pakistan are the impediment. In the last forty years Afghanistan has
faced civil war and foreign intervention. Since then Pakistan finds itself at the forefront of the efforts to bring peace
and stability in Afghanistan, as a "frontline state". In 1970s and 1980s it opposed the U.S.S.R. invasion and since
2001 it has supported the U.S. invasion, ditching the Taliban regime. The presence of foreign forces in Afghanistan
has affected Pakistan's sovereignty due to drone and border attacks. Pakistan wants to safeguard its legitimate
interests i.e. peaceful, stable and friendly Afghanistan. At the same time it wants that Afghanistan may not be used
by any regional country against the interests of Pakistan.
In Afghanistan different ethnicities are apprehensive of each other and combine together against the Pashtuns
dominance of the past. All the other ethnicities strived hard to find a place in the Afghan state and are adamant to
preserve their restored identities. The study focuses on the effects of U.S. drawdown of forces, signing of Bilateral
Security Agreement and Status Of Forces Agreement on Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. It has given new impetus to
peace efforts. However, the Taliban insurgency has been deadliest in 2014 with peace nowhere. The efforts of U.S.
and the regional states to ensure peace have been evaluated.
The study explains the phenomenon of mistrust and hostile relations of the two states in realist perspective.
Geostrategic and geo-economics reasons make it necessary for both states to have cordial relations. A peaceful
settlement is interest of people of Pakistan and Afghanistan and the region, the alternative is a scary civil war.

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