Recent discussions across social media platforms ranging from X (formerly Twitter) have highlighted how Afghanistan is very much dependent and interwoven with strings of Pakistan – economically, diplomatically, and even in terms of security – the leverage Pakistan holds over this immediate neighbor.
In economic terms, Afghanistan is highly dependent on Pakistan for trade, transit routes, and humanitarian aid. Any disruption in these could severely affect the economy and the people of Afghanistan, as it flows for food, the ship’s fuel, and medicines from Pakistan.
Diplomatically, the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan, however, isolated from the world by its actions, can still count Pakistan as an ally. Such a relationship gives the Taliban a kind of international legitimacy as well.
Also Read: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign MoU on Holy Quran Publication and Translation
The security angle is also that the robust military and strong intelligence networks of Pakistan prove to be a backbone in managing the threats emerging out of Afghan soil. Pakistan also helps anti-Taliban groups, which is an important element in the regional security equation.
For decades, Pakistan has given refuge to millions of Afghans, offering them basic services and a house, well unlike other countries that closed their borders to people fleeing war.
Tied up in this ugly game, Pakistan, at the same time, promotes peaceful dialogue with the Taliban and positions itself as a critical piece of whatever important game is played for regional stability. Experts note that underestimating Pakistan’s strategic realpolitik would be hazardous for the future stability of Afghanistan.