Despite ongoing security and political challenges, Pakistan and Afghanistan have no viable alternative but to pursue sustained dialogue, pragmatic cooperation, calibrated security measures, expanded economic engagement, and stronger Track 1.5 and Track II diplomacy to rebuild mutual trust and strengthen bilateral relations, leading experts and stakeholders said during a high-level consultation held in Islamabad.
The views were expressed at a stakeholder consultation on Pakistan-Afghanistan bilateral developments and the way forward, organized by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) under its multi-track diplomacy initiative, “Beyond Boundaries.”
The consultation brought together senior policymakers, diplomats, security experts, journalists, business representatives, and community leaders, who examined the complex dimensions of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, including security concerns, economic interdependence, border management, trade disruptions, humanitarian challenges, and opportunities for renewed diplomatic engagement.
Participants stressed that while security challenges remain a major concern, prolonged confrontation and disruption of engagement could further damage economic ties, increase hardship for border communities, and deepen mistrust between the two neighboring countries.
Former President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Fazal Moqeem, highlighted that Pakistan-Afghanistan relations extend far beyond security considerations and involve significant economic interests affecting millions of people on both sides of the border.
He noted that numerous industries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have historically depended on trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian markets, adding that prolonged disruptions in commercial activity have contributed to unemployment, financial losses, and economic uncertainty.
Calling for renewed engagement, he urged state and non-state stakeholders from both countries to revive structured dialogue mechanisms aimed at resolving outstanding issues and restoring mutually beneficial economic cooperation.
“Trade and economic connectivity can serve as a bridge between communities and create incentives for stability,” participants observed during the discussion.
Senior journalist and tribal representative from North Waziristan, Nasir Dawar, drew attention to the severe economic consequences of strained bilateral relations.
He highlighted that many businesses, manufacturing units, and commercial enterprises—particularly those owned by people from the former tribal areas and dependent on Afghan and Central Asian markets—have suffered significant losses or shut down due to prolonged disruptions.
He emphasized that border communities are among the first to experience the consequences of deteriorating relations and called for policies that balance security requirements with the economic needs of local populations.
Chief of the Customs Wing at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Arbab Qaiser, highlighted the broader impact of border closures on trade routes connecting Pakistan with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
He stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of the economic costs associated with prolonged border restrictions and emphasized the importance of maintaining functional trade channels. Describing traders and business communities as important goodwill ambassadors, he noted that commercial engagement has historically played a positive role in improving bilateral understanding. He also recalled that previous ministerial-level engagements had produced constructive outcomes and emphasized the need to continue diplomatic efforts through institutional channels.
Maulana Mufti Muhammad Qasim Haqqani highlighted the vulnerability of communities dependent on cross-border economic activity, particularly in Chaman. He noted that a significant majority of the local population relies on trade, transportation, and related services connected to cross-border movement. He emphasized that prolonged disruptions negatively affect ordinary citizens, transport workers, and small businesses, adding that local representatives had engaged with authorities in Kandahar to encourage restraint and protect civilians from the consequences of cross-border tensions.
Retired Lieutenant General Inamul Haq emphasized that geostrategic realities would continue to influence Pakistan-Afghanistan relations alongside economic considerations. He identified the presence and activities of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as one of the most serious challenges affecting bilateral relations and argued that sustainable normalization would remain difficult without addressing security concerns linked to militant groups operating from Afghan territory.
He stressed the importance of balancing security requirements with broader diplomatic and economic objectives. Former Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua emphasized that continued engagement with Afghanistan remains essential and argued that attempts at regime change are neither realistic nor desirable policy options.
While acknowledging terrorism as a serious challenge, she stressed the importance of expanding trade relations, strengthening people-to-people contacts, and promoting constructive narratives to reduce growing polarization.
She called for a long-term approach centered on communication, confidence-building, and practical cooperation. Former Ambassador to Iran Riffat Masood noted that both countries have not made sufficient sustained efforts toward normalization and cautioned against allowing border closures to become the default response to security incidents.
She emphasized that diplomatic engagement must remain active even during periods of disagreement.
Policy professional Ammara Durrani called for a broader strategic reassessment of Pakistan’s regional approach and highlighted the complex dynamics and asymmetry within Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
She stressed the importance of strengthening Track II diplomacy and gradually elevating successful informal engagements into Track 1.5 mechanisms involving officials, experts, and influential stakeholders.
Former Ambassador Seema Elahi Baloch questioned whether diplomatic avenues between Pakistan and Afghanistan had truly been exhausted and urged greater investment in sustained dialogue before adopting confrontational measures.
She emphasized that diplomacy remains an essential tool for managing disagreements between neighboring states.
Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Member of the Shariat Appellate Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and former Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), highlighted the importance of addressing Afghanistan’s humanitarian challenges alongside security concerns.
He drew attention to issues including poverty, food insecurity, and economic vulnerability, emphasizing that humanitarian stability is closely linked with regional peace and security.
The consultation concluded with a consensus that Pakistan and Afghanistan must pursue a realistic and comprehensive engagement framework based on dialogue, economic cooperation, security coordination, and confidence-building measures. Participants emphasized that neither country can afford prolonged instability and that sustainable peace requires a balanced approach combining security vigilance with diplomatic outreach and economic connectivity.
The stakeholders reaffirmed that stronger Track 1.5 and Track II initiatives, expanded trade relations, and continuous communication channels can play a critical role in rebuilding trust and creating a more stable future for both nations.
