Qaiser questioned why Pakistan is reluctant to open channels of communication with Kabul when “we can talk to India despite severe tensions
Faisal Sheikh
ISLAMABAD — Former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser on Tuesday stressed the need for Pakistan to engage Afghanistan through diplomatic channels, saying that while the government’s concerns regarding the security situation are understandable, dialogue remains the only sustainable path forward.
Addressing a press conference, Qaiser questioned why Pakistan is reluctant to open channels of communication with Kabul when “we can talk to India despite severe tensions.” He said that durable peace in the region cannot be achieved without meaningful engagement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, adding that PTI Chairman Imran Khan had always advocated for structured dialogue with Kabul.
Qaiser highlighted that during the PTI government, bilateral trade with Afghanistan reached USD 1.7 billion, a sign of strong economic interdependence between the two neighbours. He also pointed to PTI’s foreign policy initiatives, including renewed focus on Africa under the “Engage Africa” policy and increased attention toward Central Asia. These policies, he said, opened new avenues for trade, investment, and diplomatic outreach.
Turning to domestic issues, Asad Qaiser expressed concern over what he described as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s unfair treatment in the National Finance Commission (NFC) award. He said the province was not receiving its rightful share, despite consistently contributing to national development and bearing the brunt of security challenges. “We are Pakistanis and we want uplift and progress in this country,” he said, urging the federal government to address provincial grievances.
Qaiser also emphasized the importance of strong institutions operating within constitutional limits. “Pakistan can only move forward when all institutions respect their boundaries,” he remarked. Stressing unity, he said the Pakistan Army is “our own army, our own children,” and that strengthening national harmony should be everyone’s priority.
The former speaker reiterated PTI’s stance that peace, stability, and job creation must remain the country’s top priorities. He said Pakistan’s economic revival is directly linked to regional cooperation, domestic stability, and fair treatment of all federating units.
“As Pakistanis, we want a peaceful and prosperous country where institutions function properly, the economy thrives, and our youth get employment opportunities,” Qaiser concluded.
