Conflict with Afghanistan caused more damage to Pakistan than 3 wars with India : Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s special envoy in Afghanistan

Pakistan’s Special Ambassador to Afghanistan Asif Durrani

Islamabad (Pakistan) – The border dispute between Pakistan and Afghanistan has become more severe since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, stated Asif Durrani, Special Envoy of Pakistan, in a programme held here. He added that Pakistan’s conflict with Afghanistan has cost dearly and caused more damage to Pakistan than its three wars with India, in addition to human lives, loss of wealth and its economy.

Durrani added,

1. More than 80,000 Pakistanis were killed in the last two decades due to terrorism and the number can rise in future. After the withdrawal of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) forces, it was hoped that stability in Afghanistan would bring peace to the region, but such expectations were short-lived.

2. The attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group, on Pakistan’s border areas increased by 65%, while suicide attacks increased by 5%.

3. TTP militant group’s use of Afghan soil for its enhanced attacks has been a serious concern for Pakistan. Another worrying aspect is the participation of Afghan nationals in these attacks.

4. In 1979, Pakistan had suffered geopolitically since the Soviet Union decided to send its army to Afghanistan. The post 9/11 attack on the World Trade Centre, USA affected the whole world and also had an adverse impact on Pakistan.

5. It led to Pakistan being appointed as a non-NATO ally, making it difficult to trade with Pakistan. Pakistan’s other exports also stopped.