Afghanistan Should Be Treated as an Independent Country: Aizaz Chaudhry

Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, the Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, has emphasized the importance of improving relations between Kabul and Islamabad and stated that Afghanistan should be treated as an independent country.

Chaudhry added that Pakistan should not interfere in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, including the type of governance it chooses. Regarding how Afghanistan should be approached, he stated:
“We must treat Afghanistan as an independent and free country. They should decide for themselves what kind of government or system they want. We should not interfere in these matters.”

In his remarks, the Director General of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad highlighted Afghanistan’s strategic position and its trade relations with Pakistan as significant. He stressed that improving trade relations with Afghanistan should be a priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy. He also emphasized that enhancing the economic situation and resolving the challenges faced by residents on both sides of the Durand Line are crucial for improving security in these areas.

He said: “The people of the region, especially those living on both sides of the border, should engage in economic activities, reducing the space currently occupied by militants. I believe if we can, we should focus on making economic interests the main axis of Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan.”

“The real image of our country, Pakistan, and the region is known to the whole world and to China. However, I have not seen countries muster the courage to say this is your true image,” said Yousuf Amin Zazai, a political analyst.

This comes amid tensions along the Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan, including claims by Pakistani officials about the use of Afghan soil against Pakistan and the closure of the Torkham crossing for various reasons—factors that have consistently strained relations between the two countries.