Analysis by Hanif Qamar
ISLAMABAD, Monday, June 2, 2025 (WNP): Pakistan’s western border is moving steadily towards greater security as recent high-level engagements between Pakistan’s civil-military leadership and the governments of Iran and Afghanistan have yielded significant diplomatic breakthroughs.
With Iran, longstanding contentious issues have been amicably resolved. During the recent Pakistan-India conflict, Iran extended consistent support to Pakistan on diplomatic, political, and even geographical fronts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s public endorsement of Iran’s peaceful nuclear program—made during his official visit to Tehran—was a direct reflection of this strategic alignment and goodwill.
On the Afghan front, China’s proactive diplomatic role has been instrumental in facilitating a thaw between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. A notable development came when senior Taliban commander Saeedullah Saeed denounced violent activities carried out in Pakistan under the guise of ‘jihad’, categorizing them as acts of terrorism. This declaration was not incidental—it was the result of intense diplomatic, political, and military efforts led by both Pakistan and China.
Further signaling a shift towards normalized ties, Pakistan has decided to upgrade its diplomatic representation in Kabul from chargé d’affaires to ambassador-level—an important gesture of goodwill and intent to rebuild trust.
The synergy between Pakistan’s military and political leadership is proving effective and is positively shaping the country’s global image. This partnership has delivered key results and, importantly, must be sustained.
Continuity in this model of governance is essential for political stability—the most critical need of the nation at this time. Regardless of what nomenclature is attached to this arrangement, it should ideally be maintained for at least a decade. Only then can Pakistan ensure an environment conducive to investment, economic growth, and an improved quality of life for its citizens.
There is strong optimism that this civil-military collaboration will soon secure the western border completely, allowing Pakistan to shift its strategic focus towards the eastern front—a transition that could make handling challenges from India more manageable.
Pakistan’s ties with the United States and the Gulf countries have also seen marked improvement—though that is a subject worthy of separate discussion.
Note: The author is a senior journalist and anchorperson with extensive experience in Pakistan’s political affairs. He can be reached at +92 300 8116117.
