DNA
ISLAMABAD: The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) held a round table discussion on Political–economic situation of Afghanistan and its impact on regional connectivity. Participants in the roundtable discussion included former ambassadors, mainstream media representatives, academic professionals, and activists.
Ambassador Abrar Hussain, Vice Chairman Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) spoke about internal and external threats facing the interim government in Afghanistan. At present, the Taliban did not face any real threat to their rule. Taliban would require reforms in education, inclusivity, women education and governance to gain international recognition. Although most regional countries have started active engagements with the Taliban, yet recognition remains a far cry.
Dr Farah Naz, Assistant Professor at National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Islamabad, discussed the ground economic realities of Afghanistan. She was of the view that the Taliban had averted an economic domestic crisis and were running the country’s economy under sanctions but almost 80 percent of the population was still living below the poverty line, with drought and famine contributing to the unfavourable living standards for the people.
Salman Javed, Director General of the Pakistan Afghan Youth Forum (PAYF) highlighted the numerous agreements the Taliban have made with neighboring countries which had altered the trade balance in Afghanistan’s favour with many regional countries including Pakistan.
Nizamuddin Khan, Editor at HUM Network stated that there was a dire need for Pakistan to understand the contextual nuances of Afghanistan in order to effectively engage with Afghanistan as the gateway of this region, tapping into the economic potential of the country. He pressed on the fact that there may be many projects in process with Afghanistan, but the lack of their implementation and absence of improved security situation was proving to be a constant struggle for the Afghan population.
President IRS, Ambassador Nadeem Riyaz while concluding the event stressed the need for constant engagement with the Taliban, internal stability and consistent policies at home for ensuring betterment in bilateral ties. He also stressed that without a stable Afghanistan, regional connectivity would remain a mirage.
