Green Light from Establishment Opens Door for KP-AIG Talks

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has recently confirmed that his administration has received a “green light” from establishment to engage in negotiations with the interim government in Afghanistan (AIG). This announcement represents a pivotal shift in KP’s strategy to address cross-border tensions and security issues linked to the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.

In a press conference on January 21, 2025, Gandapur stated, “The federal government talked about negotiations with Afghanistan over bilateral issues, but there’s no success. Now, the dialogue with Kabul will be held at the provincial level.” He emphasized the significant challenges faced by KP, which shares the longest border with Afghanistan, asserting that “our province has the longest border with Afghanistan, and we face the most severe consequences” and Adviser to the KP chief minister on information Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said the objective for talks with tribesmen on the other side of the border was to maintain peace in the province since Pakhtuns lived on both sides of the 2,650-kilometre-long border.

To advance this initiative, Gandapur plans to send a delegation of tribal elders to Afghanistan within two weeks. The delegation aims to negotiate resolutions to ongoing bilateral issues impacting both regions. “The delegation will go to Afghanistan within two weeks and hold talks (with the interim government),” he mentioned, expressing optimism for cooperation from Afghan officials.

This approach also seeks to leverage historical tribal dynamics, as Gandapur stated that a delegation of tribal leaders would engage directly with the interim authorities. “We hope the Afghan government will cooperate with our jirga (tribal leaders’ board),” he noted, underlining the importance of these traditional structures in facilitating dialogue.

Also See: Gandapur to Send K-P Delegation to Afghanistan

The security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has become increasingly complex, with over 400 violent incidents reported in 2024. This escalation has significantly impacted civilian life and strained the local law enforcement agencies. According to the KP Counter Terrorism Department, security operations have resulted in numerous clashes with local militias, raising concerns over civilian safety.There is a substantial threat posed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which continues to operate across the region. Reports indicate that militants from the TTP are responsible for a significant number of attacks aimed at destabilizing the province.

The upcoming talks between the KP government and the interim government of Afghanistan may redefine regional dynamics, fostering stability and cooperation in a historically tumultuous area. As these negotiations unfold, the potential for a more peaceful future could emerge, benefiting both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and its Afghan neighbors.

This news is sourced from [Dawn] and is for informational purposes only.