Former Pakistani Envoy Criticizes Border Closures, TTP Support as Poor Governance
Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s former special envoy for Afghanistan, has criticized his country’s recent actions towards Afghanistan, asserting that closing trade crossing points and allowing the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to operate freely cannot be seen as signs of effective governance or military strength.
In a post on the social media platform X on Saturday, December 5, Durrani said such policies are neither consistent with Islamic principles nor justifiable from a humanitarian standpoint. According to him, adopting such confrontational policies cannot be justified regardless of the political system or ideological perspective involved.
Durrani emphasized the vital role of those advocating for wisdom and reason within both Pakistani and Afghan societies. He wrote that these individuals must pursue peace and mutual understanding for the betterment and future of their communities. He also posed a critical question: “Where are these wise voices?”
Durrani’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the Taliban administration and the Pakistani government. Recently, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid alleged that Pakistani military forces once again targeted Taliban positions in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province.
Previously, Durrani had highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, noting that Afghanistan holds a unique position for Pakistan despite being governed by the Taliban. However, his latest comments reflect increased concern over the political and humanitarian consequences of recent clashes, which he believes are threatening the lives of people on both sides of the border.
