EVENTS & POLICY DIALOGUE

Roundtable on Pak-Afghan Tensions & their Implications on the Region Organized by ASPIRE-KP

PESHAWAR: Advocacy for Sustainable Policy and Implementation Reforms (Aspire-KP) convened a high-level roundtable on “Pakistan–Afghanistan Tensions and Their Regional Implications,” bringing together seasoned Afghanologists, academics, and civil society leaders. Chaired by Mohammad Shehzad Arbab with context provided by Dr. Qibla Ayaz and recommendations synthesized by Hifz ur Rahman, the forum called for de-escalation through dialogue, insulating bilateral commerce at Torkham from political disputes, reforming border and visa procedures, and ensuring dignity in refugee policy.

Location

Institute of Management Sciences, Hayatabad, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Event Date

November, 2025

Insights from the roundtable

On 15 November 2025, the Advocacy for Sustainable Policy and Implementation Reforms (Aspire-KP) convened a significant roundtable discussion titled “Pakistan–Afghanistan Tensions and Their Regional Implications.” As a non-profit platform led by public service professionals from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Aspire-KP regularly brings together experts and practitioners to deliberate on issues of public relevance.
This session was attended by Afghanologists, academics, civil society representatives, and members of the intelligentsia—creating a space for thoughtful, informed, and responsible reflection on a sensitive regional matter.

The discussion opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by introductory remarks from Muhammad Shehzad Arbab, who highlighted the objectives of the roundtable and Aspire-KP’s broader mission.

Dr. Qibla Ayaz provided an overview of the current state of Pakistan–Afghanistan relations, helping contextualize the conversation for participants. After several rounds of open dialogue, a summary of the key points and recommendations was presented by Hifz ur Rahman.

Key themes from the Discussion

While speakers brought diverse experiences and perspectives, a number of common threads emerged during the conversations:

1. Understanding Each Other’s Perspectives

Participants stressed the importance of recognizing the historical, cultural, and social interdependence between Pakistan and Afghanistan. A deeper appreciation of each other’s worldviews was viewed as essential for constructive engagement.

2. Engaging Experienced Voices

Speakers recommended drawing on the insight of individuals—academics, diplomats, and practitioners—who have long studied or worked on Afghan affairs to help shape informed policy approaches.

3. Dialogue Over Confrontation

There was broad agreement that tensions and conflict do not resolve differences. Participants noted that friction harms communities on both sides, especially in vulnerable regions, and may worsen Afghanistan’s already fragile economic and social situation.

4. Inclusive and People-Centered Diplomacy

The roundtable highlighted the value of involving various societal groups—religious scholars, traders, media, academics, and civil society—in promoting understanding. Strengthening people-to-people contact was seen as an important step toward reducing mistrust.

5. Keeping Trade Separate from Politics

Pakistan and Afghanistan remain important trading partners. Concerns were raised about challenges faced by traders and exporters, particularly at Torkham. Participants emphasized that smooth trade flows benefit people on both sides and help prevent unemployment-related instability.

6. Reviewing Visa and Border Procedures

Speakers suggested reassessing visa policies and improving their implementation. They also recommended that the Government of KP consider mechanisms to support exporters, importers, and chambers of commerce.

7. Supporting Students and Investors

Participants encouraged facilitating Afghans interested in investing in Pakistan or pursuing higher education, viewing these groups as contributors to long-term stability and cooperation.

8. Sensitivity in Refugee Policy Implementation

Recognizing the delicate nature of refugee-related issues, the roundtable emphasized careful implementation, particularly concerning women and children. Ensuring dignity and avoiding situations that could be misinterpreted online were highlighted as priorities.

9. Need for Intellectual Engagement in KP

Speakers noted a gap in informed discourse on Pakistan–Afghanistan relations, especially among the youth. They encouraged a broader reflective movement led by KP’s intelligentsia and suggested institutional efforts to promote deeper understanding.

10. Expanding the National Conversation

Given the significance of Pakistan–Afghanistan relations for the entire region, Aspire-KP was encouraged to organize broader discussions at the national level involving participants from across Pakistan.

Conclusion

The Aspire-KP roundtable served as a platform for calm, thoughtful reflection on an issue that is often emotionally charged. The discussion underscored the deep interconnections between Pakistan and Afghanistan—culturally, economically, and socially—and the need for carefully crafted approaches grounded in dialogue, understanding, and inclusive engagement.

By bringing together diverse voices from KP and beyond, Aspire-KP continues to play a constructive role in fostering meaningful conversations on public policy challenges that impact the region.

Speakers

Mohammad Shehzad Arbab
Chairman, Aspire-KP (Delivered introductory and framing remarks)

Dr. Qibla Ayaz
Board Member, Aspire-KP; Former Chairman, Council of Islamic Ideology (Delivered contextual framing on Pak-Afghan bilateral relations)

Hifz ur Rahman
Board Member, Aspire-KP; Former Secretary Local Government (Presented session synthesis and key policy recommendations)