US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

"We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart.

"Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added.

The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country.

Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken unequivocally said on Friday that Taliban's actions are not helping establish peace in war-torn Afghanistan. While speaking at a news conference in Paris, he said that actions of taking the country by force were "inconsistent" with the goal of establishing peace in the country. "We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a joint news conference with his French counterpart. "Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added. The US is currently in the process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan bringing an end to the war that spanned two decades. However, fears of Taliban takeover have risen because of increased violence in the country. Earlier this week, Talliban captured Afghanistan border-crossing with Tajikistan. The terrorist group has also surrounded Kunduz, a city in northern Afghanistan. The residents fear a siege by Taliban. Afghan government forces are present in the city and reinforcements have come as well. The situation remains grim. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's actions 'inconsistent' with establishing peace in Afghanistan: Blinken

The United States of America is understandably keen to accelerate the intra- Afghan peace talks, envisaged under the historic, albeit unique agreement of February 29, 2020, which it concluded with Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist terror organisation and the self-styled Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The talks were to commence on&nbsp;March 10, 2010, but are yet to take-off in real earnest. &nbsp;

What is holding up the commencement of the intra-Afghan talks? Multiple factors include: &nbsp;

Reluctant Afghan Government 
 
The US-Taliban pact was imposed on the democratically elected Government in Afghanistan which was not a party to the deal, which was concluded with the primary objective of paving the path for an &nbsp;“honourable” exit for the USA from Afghanistan, after nearly two decades of military intervention during which the US and allies failed to neutralise or tame Taliban. Realising its limitations, the Afghan government had nevertheless endorsed the deal and confirmed (in the Afghanistan-USA Joint Declaration of February 29, 2020) its readiness to participate in intra-Afghanistan negotiations, at which all stake-holders in Afghanistan are expected to meet and negotiate a cease-fire agreement with Taliban and determine the future political structure for the governance of the country. Logically, the elected government should have no urgency as it stands only to dilute its position if the intra-Afghan talks ultimately lead to the formation of a large coalition of diverse ethnic groups as well as the Taliban. Conversely, it has every reason to delay the process. The flip side is that the Afghan government would have to continue to face the terror attacks from the Taliban if it dilly-dallies the intra-Afghan talks. &nbsp;

Swap of Prisoners 
 
One of the important prerequisites for the commencement of intra-Afghan talks is the swap of prisoners between the Afghan government and Taliban, a commitment made by the USA on behalf of the Afghan government in the US-Taliban agreement. After initial hesitation, the Afghan President eventually agreed to a staggered but conditional release of 5000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for 1000 Afghan security forces personnel held in Taliban custody. The process of swap of prisoners has been painfully slow, often suspended. The Afghan Government has alleged that the Taliban is not adhering to the understanding that it would release one Afghan security person in exchange for 5 Taliban prisoners released by the Government. The situation is now likely to get even more complicated after the Afghan allegation (May 11) that out of the list of 1000 personnel handed over to the Taliban, at least 610 are missing. In an interaction with media, the Afghanistan National Security Spokesperson warned that the government would not be obliged to go ahead with the agreement if the Taliban “conducted illegal behaviour with prisoners and the prisoners are lost”&nbsp;

Acts of Violence 
 
The statements emanating from the USA, including by the Defence secretary suggest that the Taliban attacks against the Afghan government have increased considerably. Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman was reported to have said that the "unacceptably high" number of attacks by the Taliban was "not conducive to a diplomatic solution."&nbsp;

Political Rivalries

A long-standing political rivalry between President Ashraf Ghani and his former Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah is yet another factor in the given context. &nbsp;In fact, the US State Secretary was reported to have announced (23rd March) a cut in US aid to Afghanistan in a bid to force the two rivals to end the feud which in the US assessment was only helping stall the US-led peace-making efforts in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

The US bid to accelerate the talks and enlist India’s support &nbsp;

In order to push the implementation of the US-Taliban deal, The US Special Representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, Ambassador Zalmy Khalilzad travelled to Doha, New Delhi and Islamabad in the first week of May. He, accompanied by Senior Director in the US National Security Council, and the US Ambassador to India, met &nbsp;(May 7) with India’s External Affairs Minister and National Security Advisor. According to official pronouncements, Ambassador&nbsp;Zalmy Khalilzad conveyed the US recognition of India’s “constructive contribution” in economic development and reconstruction and humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and “laid importance to India's crucial and continuing role in sustainable peace, security and stability in Afghanistan”. In response, the Indian side inter-alia expressed its concern at the upsurge of violence in Afghanistan and emphasised that “putting an end to terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries is necessary for enduring and sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan”. At this stage of the meeting, in all probability, the US Representative may have recommended that India should also enter into a direct dialogue with the Taliban as was done by the USA. The official statements from India are silent on this aspect, reported in a segment of the media.&nbsp;

A couple of days after the visit of the US Special Representative, the Taliban’s Doha-based &nbsp;political office spokesperson, Suhail Shaheen &nbsp;was reported to have said ( to an Indian TV news channel correspondent on May 9) that the Taliban “would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan."&nbsp;

It is thus apparent that both the USA and the Taliban realise the limitations of cash-strapped Pakistan in providing any material assistance to Afghanistan. The USA may also gradually reduce its economic assistance to Afghanistan. In contrast, the importance of India in the economic development of Afghanistan is well established and well appreciated in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Hence an attempt to nudge India towards a commitment of continued engagement with Afghanistan irrespective of Taliban sharing power in the post-intra-Afghanistan dialogue scenario.&nbsp;

India’s Position &nbsp;&nbsp;

So far India has indeed played an important role in Afghanistan but its role has remained confined largely to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Afghanistan; it has invested about $3 billion in civilian infrastructure projects, besides capacity building including the training programmes for Afghan defence personnel. India’s contribution to economic development has earned it enormous goodwill in Afghanistan but its ability to influence the future political road map of Afghanistan or to secure assurances for its security interests within and outside Afghanistan remains limited. One of the several reasons is the reluctance on the part of India to engage Taliban or share a platform with the fundamentalist terror organization. &nbsp;

India, by and large, have remained excluded from the multi-party deliberations aimed at securing peace, security, stability and reconciliation in Afghanistan. Most recently, India wasn’t invited to the UN-coordinated 6+2+1 meeting on Afghanistan (16th April) attended by Afghanistan, its neighbours -China, Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan- and the USA and Russia. The flimsy explanation for non-inclusion of India was that it did not share borders with Afghanistan, ignoring the fact that India’s territory bordering Afghanistan is currently under Pakistan’s illegal occupation.&nbsp;

In its official response to US-Taliban agreement (29th February), India stopped short of “welcoming” it in so many words, though it did “ note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the Government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements”. The official statement in this regard reiterated what it said was India’s “consistent policy to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security and stability in Afghanistan; end violence; cut ties with international terrorism; and lead to a lasting political settlement through an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan controlled process”&nbsp;

India Dilemma &nbsp;

Should India reconsider its current policy that a lasting political settlement in Afghanistan must come through an “Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan controlled process”, considering that the elected Afghan Government is hardly in control of the peace process which at the moment is being dominated by the USA and Taliban with the active participation of Pakistan? &nbsp;

Should India settle down for a limited role of being only a facilitator of the economic prosperity of Afghanistan without any defined role in the processes determining the future political road map of Afghanistan and particularly without any firm commitments that the Taliban would not act against the security interests of India, nor will it allow any terror outfit to use the Afghan soil to do so?. The USA has secured an assurance to this effect through direct negotiations with the Taliban for itself and its allies. Should India, therefore,&nbsp;follow the US model and consider the option of entering into direct talks with a terror organisation? If India does so, it would constitute a major departure from its consistent policy of dealing only with recognised governments.&nbsp;

Or should India wait and see whether its role is expanded by its inclusion in expanded 6+2+1 group and also how the intra-Afghan talks develop over a period of time, and then make an assessment on the desirability or otherwise of opening a direct channel of communication with Taliban?&nbsp;

Should India in the meanwhile stop quietly insisting on peace process being Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan controlled and open a Track II Channel with Taliban with or without the US participation? &nbsp;

These are the key issues which should be engaging the attention of India’s Afghanistan policy-makers. It remains to be seen as to what strategy India would eventually adopt to ensure its strong foothold in Afghanistan as well as to secure its security interests.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The United States of America is understandably keen to accelerate the intra- Afghan peace talks, envisaged under the historic, albeit unique agreement of February 29, 2020, which it concluded with Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist terror organisation and the self-styled Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

The United States of America is understandably keen to accelerate the intra- Afghan peace talks, envisaged under the historic, albeit unique agreement of February 29, 2020, which it concluded with Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist terror organisation and the self-styled Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The talks were to commence on March 10, 2010, but are yet to take-off in real earnest. What is holding up the commencement of the intra-Afghan talks? Multiple factors include: Reluctant Afghan Government The US-Taliban pact was imposed on the democratically elected Government in Afghanistan which was not a party to the deal, which was concluded with the primary objective of paving the path for an “honourable” exit for the USA from Afghanistan, after nearly two decades of military intervention during which the US and allies failed to neutralise or tame Taliban. Realising its limitations, the Afghan government had nevertheless endorsed the deal and confirmed (in the Afghanistan-USA Joint Declaration of February 29, 2020) its readiness to participate in intra-Afghanistan negotiations, at which all stake-holders in Afghanistan are expected to meet and negotiate a cease-fire agreement with Taliban and determine the future political structure for the governance of the country. Logically, the elected government should have no urgency as it stands only to dilute its position if the intra-Afghan talks ultimately lead to the formation of a large coalition of diverse ethnic groups as well as the Taliban. Conversely, it has every reason to delay the process. The flip side is that the Afghan government would have to continue to face the terror attacks from the Taliban if it dilly-dallies the intra-Afghan talks. Swap of Prisoners One of the important prerequisites for the commencement of intra-Afghan talks is the swap of prisoners between the Afghan government and Taliban, a commitment made by the USA on behalf of the Afghan government in the US-Taliban agreement. After initial hesitation, the Afghan President eventually agreed to a staggered but conditional release of 5000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for 1000 Afghan security forces personnel held in Taliban custody. The process of swap of prisoners has been painfully slow, often suspended. The Afghan Government has alleged that the Taliban is not adhering to the understanding that it would release one Afghan security person in exchange for 5 Taliban prisoners released by the Government. The situation is now likely to get even more complicated after the Afghan allegation (May 11) that out of the list of 1000 personnel handed over to the Taliban, at least 610 are missing. In an interaction with media, the Afghanistan National Security Spokesperson warned that the government would not be obliged to go ahead with the agreement if the Taliban “conducted illegal behaviour with prisoners and the prisoners are lost” Acts of Violence The statements emanating from the USA, including by the Defence secretary suggest that the Taliban attacks against the Afghan government have increased considerably. Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman was reported to have said that the "unacceptably high" number of attacks by the Taliban was "not conducive to a diplomatic solution." Political Rivalries A long-standing political rivalry between President Ashraf Ghani and his former Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah is yet another factor in the given context. In fact, the US State Secretary was reported to have announced (23rd March) a cut in US aid to Afghanistan in a bid to force the two rivals to end the feud which in the US assessment was only helping stall the US-led peace-making efforts in Afghanistan. The US bid to accelerate the talks and enlist India’s support In order to push the implementation of the US-Taliban deal, The US Special Representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, Ambassador Zalmy Khalilzad travelled to Doha, New Delhi and Islamabad in the first week of May. He, accompanied by Senior Director in the US National Security Council, and the US Ambassador to India, met (May 7) with India’s External Affairs Minister and National Security Advisor. According to official pronouncements, Ambassador Zalmy Khalilzad conveyed the US recognition of India’s “constructive contribution” in economic development and reconstruction and humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and “laid importance to India's crucial and continuing role in sustainable peace, security and stability in Afghanistan”. In response, the Indian side inter-alia expressed its concern at the upsurge of violence in Afghanistan and emphasised that “putting an end to terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries is necessary for enduring and sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan”. At this stage of the meeting, in all probability, the US Representative may have recommended that India should also enter into a direct dialogue with the Taliban as was done by the USA. The official statements from India are silent on this aspect, reported in a segment of the media. A couple of days after the visit of the US Special Representative, the Taliban’s Doha-based political office spokesperson, Suhail Shaheen was reported to have said ( to an Indian TV news channel correspondent on May 9) that the Taliban “would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan." It is thus apparent that both the USA and the Taliban realise the limitations of cash-strapped Pakistan in providing any material assistance to Afghanistan. The USA may also gradually reduce its economic assistance to Afghanistan. In contrast, the importance of India in the economic development of Afghanistan is well established and well appreciated in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Hence an attempt to nudge India towards a commitment of continued engagement with Afghanistan irrespective of Taliban sharing power in the post-intra-Afghanistan dialogue scenario. India’s Position So far India has indeed played an important role in Afghanistan but its role has remained confined largely to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Afghanistan; it has invested about $3 billion in civilian infrastructure projects, besides capacity building including the training programmes for Afghan defence personnel. India’s contribution to economic development has earned it enormous goodwill in Afghanistan but its ability to influence the future political road map of Afghanistan or to secure assurances for its security interests within and outside Afghanistan remains limited. One of the several reasons is the reluctance on the part of India to engage Taliban or share a platform with the fundamentalist terror organization. India, by and large, have remained excluded from the multi-party deliberations aimed at securing peace, security, stability and reconciliation in Afghanistan. Most recently, India wasn’t invited to the UN-coordinated 6+2+1 meeting on Afghanistan (16th April) attended by Afghanistan, its neighbours -China, Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan- and the USA and Russia. The flimsy explanation for non-inclusion of India was that it did not share borders with Afghanistan, ignoring the fact that India’s territory bordering Afghanistan is currently under Pakistan’s illegal occupation. In its official response to US-Taliban agreement (29th February), India stopped short of “welcoming” it in so many words, though it did “ note that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan, including the Government, the democratic polity and civil society, has welcomed the opportunity and hope for peace and stability generated by these agreements”. The official statement in this regard reiterated what it said was India’s “consistent policy to support all opportunities that can bring peace, security and stability in Afghanistan; end violence; cut ties with international terrorism; and lead to a lasting political settlement through an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan controlled process” India Dilemma Should India reconsider its current policy that a lasting political settlement in Afghanistan must come through an “Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan controlled process”, considering that the elected Afghan Government is hardly in control of the peace process which at the moment is being dominated by the USA and Taliban with the active participation of Pakistan? Should India settle down for a limited role of being only a facilitator of the economic prosperity of Afghanistan without any defined role in the processes determining the future political road map of Afghanistan and particularly without any firm commitments that the Taliban would not act against the security interests of India, nor will it allow any terror outfit to use the Afghan soil to do so?. The USA has secured an assurance to this effect through direct negotiations with the Taliban for itself and its allies. Should India, therefore, follow the US model and consider the option of entering into direct talks with a terror organisation? If India does so, it would constitute a major departure from its consistent policy of dealing only with recognised governments. Or should India wait and see whether its role is expanded by its inclusion in expanded 6+2+1 group and also how the intra-Afghan talks develop over a period of time, and then make an assessment on the desirability or otherwise of opening a direct channel of communication with Taliban? Should India in the meanwhile stop quietly insisting on peace process being Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan controlled and open a Track II Channel with Taliban with or without the US participation? These are the key issues which should be engaging the attention of India’s Afghanistan policy-makers. It remains to be seen as to what strategy India would eventually adopt to ensure its strong foothold in Afghanistan as well as to secure its security interests. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Afghanistan's peace process: India’s position and dilemma  

Days after US President Trump called off <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-taliban-sends-warning-to-us-president-donald-trump-in-bitter-exchange-249252">talks with the Taliban</a>, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government.

Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "We believe that all sections of the Afghan society including the legitimately elected government should be part of this process. We have supported the election, the process that is about to unfold later this month."

Explaining further, he said, "Our point of view is that any process should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, should not lead to any ungoverned spaces were terrorist and their proxies can relocate and should have the full concent of Afghan people and the government."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-in-conversation-with-najib-sharifi-a-strategic-expert-from-afghanistans-kabul-248414/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The foreign ministry spokesman clarified that there is no change in New Delhi's policy regarding the peace process in Afghanistan. India supports Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and is one of the major development partner of Kabul since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.

MEA spokesperson expressed confidence that any "peace process which is being taken by the international community including by the US will accommodate our concerns in this regard."

India has shared its concerns, particularly on cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan with the US and Islamabad's support to terrorism in Afghanistan. US Special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has been to India thrice this year in the backdrop of US-Taliban talks which have now been closed by Washington.

Days after US President Trump called off talks with the Taliban, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government.

Days after US President Trump called off talks with the Taliban, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government. Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "We believe that all sections of the Afghan society including the legitimately elected government should be part of this process. We have supported the election, the process that is about to unfold later this month." Explaining further, he said, "Our point of view is that any process should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, should not lead to any ungoverned spaces were terrorist and their proxies can relocate and should have the full concent of Afghan people and the government." Watch Video: The foreign ministry spokesman clarified that there is no change in New Delhi's policy regarding the peace process in Afghanistan. India supports Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and is one of the major development partner of Kabul since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. MEA spokesperson expressed confidence that any "peace process which is being taken by the international community including by the US will accommodate our concerns in this regard." India has shared its concerns, particularly on cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan with the US and Islamabad's support to terrorism in Afghanistan. US Special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has been to India thrice this year in the backdrop of US-Taliban talks which have now been closed by Washington.

Any peace process in Afghanistan should respect political mandate: India

Dozens of Afghan political leaders have attended a conference in neighbouring Pakistan to discuss possible ways to achieve peace in the war-torn country.

US and Taliban to hold talks in Doha

Big diplomatic victory for India after the US said in a statement that it will consult India on the Afghan Peace process. Watch full video to know more.

US to consult India on the Afghan Peace process

On February 20, WION Global Summit - Unleashing the Power of South Asia, was held in Dubai, UAE. WION is a Global English News Channel, which was launched by Indian News Media Company Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), bringing world news with a South Asian view dedicated to an audience with values and beliefs that are as global, social, visual, and tech-savvy by nature.&nbsp;

I was honoured to be part of a panel discussion - “Future of South Asia: Strategic Balances &amp; Alliances”, alongside distinguished members Shaurya Doval, Director of India Foundation, Namal Rajapaksa, Member of Parliament from Sri Lanka, Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director and Senior Associate for South Asia at the US-based Woodrow Wilson Center, and Hasanul Haq Inu, Bangladesh's former Minister of Information. The panel was moderated by international journalist, TV show host, and author, Riz Khan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The diversity of voices on the panel was reflective of the rich diversity South Asia is known for. Sadly, due to a history of political tensions in the region, we have never seen the realisation of the true potential of this diversity in bringing stability and prosperity to South Asia. The protracted conflict of nearly 40 years in Afghanistan is one of the major deterrents to the region’s development. I believe that 2019 has thus far been and will continue to be a pivotal year for Afghanistan but also the region, as a whole, from a standpoint of security, economic, and political issues.

The level of true regional cooperation, as well as the support of the international community on the most pressing issues facing South Asia, will determine the fate of the region. Representing the Afghan perspective on the panel at the WION Global Summit, I will, here, highlight the three main issues I spoke about. &nbsp; &nbsp;

First, free and fair elections have been considered a cornerstone of development and progress in Afghanistan. When held properly, the psychosocial impacts of elections are incredibly positive for citizens who see them as a sign that their nation is moving forward, that the transition of power is accountable, and that they can exercise their constitutional right of choosing their leaders.

The most recent elections were held for the Wolesi Jirga (Lower House of Parliament) on October 20, 2018, the final results of which are yet to be announced due to a host of issues ranging from security to allegations of widespread electoral fraud. Commissioners of the Independent Election Commission and the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission were removed by President Ashraf Ghani following the accusation that they were engaged in electoral fraud. He just appointed 12 new commissioners in a consultative process that involved several political leaders, including candidates for the upcoming Presidential elections. &nbsp;

Security challenges continue to hinder the democratic process in Afghanistan. Several candidates were assassinated and some were even injured in the voting process, yet it did not stop Afghans from casting their vote.&nbsp;

Lack of transparency, mismanagement of the process,&nbsp;fraud and bribery are a norm and have been woven into our social fabric. Criminal activities such as fraud and bribery are often also interlinked with the insurgency in Afghanistan. If these activities continue to be a norm, they will have a spillover effect into the region. During the panel discussion, I argued that South Asian nations must do their part in holding Afghanistan accountable for transparency because bad practice spreads very fast and the negative implications can easily transfer to the region. &nbsp;

Second, I focused on an issue that has taken the international community and the media by a storm, the peace process in Afghanistan. However, when the two negotiating sides are the United States and the Taliban, Afghans are left to wonder how they will benefit from the peace process but more importantly what it means for Afghans.

It is not viable to have peace negotiations without the consensus of the Afghan people and the inclusion of the Afghan government. If Taliban wants to negotiate a peace deal, they must speak with those who are vigilant and concerned about their reintegration into society - the shop keepers, businessmen, athletes, journalists, artists, musicians, government officials and the Afghan women.&nbsp;

My recommendation to the international community is to keep in mind that this must be an ‘Afghan-owned’ peace process which must embrace all Afghans and – only Afghans. This will not just benefit Afghanistan, but will also have a positive impact on the region and global community. &nbsp;

Lastly, I spoke about the economic stability of Afghanistan. Due to the political, security, and economic transitions in 2014, Afghanistan’s economy took a major hit and unemployment increased to an alarming rate of around 40 per cent. Since then, intensive government reforms, as well as private sector growth, have led to an improved business climate. However, there are major hindrances to economic growth in the country, such as political uncertainty, corruption and security challenges.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has been actively engaged in regional economic cooperation so as to improve its economy but also assist in bringing stability to the region. However, the marked positive economic impact of these projects, such as Chahbahar Port, Lapis Lazuli Corridor and the Air Corridor programme, will not come immediately. In order for Afghanistan to become a donor-free economy, it will need the support of South Asian countries, particularly in terms of investment in the private sector as well as more active engagement in trade. Bringing economic stability to Afghanistan in indubitably one of the most effective methods for countering the insurgency, particularly in impoverished communities that turn to negative coping mechanisms such as joining insurgent movements to support their families.&nbsp;

They say a rising tide lifts all boats and this could ring more true for South Asia. The countries in the region must understand that their fate is intertwined with Afghanistan’s. A strategic alliance and cooperation between Afghanistan and South Asian countries in areas of mutual interest, be it economic, security, education, or sociocultural, will help the region realise&nbsp;its truest potentials. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

On February 20, WION Global Summit - Unleashing the Power of South Asia, was held in Dubai, UAE. WION is a Global English News Channel, which was launched by Indian News Media Company Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), bringing world news with a South Asian view dedicated to an audience with values and beliefs that are as global, social, visual, and tech-savvy by nature.

On February 20, WION Global Summit - Unleashing the Power of South Asia, was held in Dubai, UAE. WION is a Global English News Channel, which was launched by Indian News Media Company Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), bringing world news with a South Asian view dedicated to an audience with values and beliefs that are as global, social, visual, and tech-savvy by nature. I was honoured to be part of a panel discussion - “Future of South Asia: Strategic Balances & Alliances”, alongside distinguished members Shaurya Doval, Director of India Foundation, Namal Rajapaksa, Member of Parliament from Sri Lanka, Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director and Senior Associate for South Asia at the US-based Woodrow Wilson Center, and Hasanul Haq Inu, Bangladesh's former Minister of Information. The panel was moderated by international journalist, TV show host, and author, Riz Khan. The diversity of voices on the panel was reflective of the rich diversity South Asia is known for. Sadly, due to a history of political tensions in the region, we have never seen the realisation of the true potential of this diversity in bringing stability and prosperity to South Asia. The protracted conflict of nearly 40 years in Afghanistan is one of the major deterrents to the region’s development. I believe that 2019 has thus far been and will continue to be a pivotal year for Afghanistan but also the region, as a whole, from a standpoint of security, economic, and political issues. The level of true regional cooperation, as well as the support of the international community on the most pressing issues facing South Asia, will determine the fate of the region. Representing the Afghan perspective on the panel at the WION Global Summit, I will, here, highlight the three main issues I spoke about. First, free and fair elections have been considered a cornerstone of development and progress in Afghanistan. When held properly, the psychosocial impacts of elections are incredibly positive for citizens who see them as a sign that their nation is moving forward, that the transition of power is accountable, and that they can exercise their constitutional right of choosing their leaders. The most recent elections were held for the Wolesi Jirga (Lower House of Parliament) on October 20, 2018, the final results of which are yet to be announced due to a host of issues ranging from security to allegations of widespread electoral fraud. Commissioners of the Independent Election Commission and the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission were removed by President Ashraf Ghani following the accusation that they were engaged in electoral fraud. He just appointed 12 new commissioners in a consultative process that involved several political leaders, including candidates for the upcoming Presidential elections. Security challenges continue to hinder the democratic process in Afghanistan. Several candidates were assassinated and some were even injured in the voting process, yet it did not stop Afghans from casting their vote. Lack of transparency, mismanagement of the process, fraud and bribery are a norm and have been woven into our social fabric. Criminal activities such as fraud and bribery are often also interlinked with the insurgency in Afghanistan. If these activities continue to be a norm, they will have a spillover effect into the region. During the panel discussion, I argued that South Asian nations must do their part in holding Afghanistan accountable for transparency because bad practice spreads very fast and the negative implications can easily transfer to the region. Second, I focused on an issue that has taken the international community and the media by a storm, the peace process in Afghanistan. However, when the two negotiating sides are the United States and the Taliban, Afghans are left to wonder how they will benefit from the peace process but more importantly what it means for Afghans. It is not viable to have peace negotiations without the consensus of the Afghan people and the inclusion of the Afghan government. If Taliban wants to negotiate a peace deal, they must speak with those who are vigilant and concerned about their reintegration into society - the shop keepers, businessmen, athletes, journalists, artists, musicians, government officials and the Afghan women. My recommendation to the international community is to keep in mind that this must be an ‘Afghan-owned’ peace process which must embrace all Afghans and – only Afghans. This will not just benefit Afghanistan, but will also have a positive impact on the region and global community. Lastly, I spoke about the economic stability of Afghanistan. Due to the political, security, and economic transitions in 2014, Afghanistan’s economy took a major hit and unemployment increased to an alarming rate of around 40 per cent. Since then, intensive government reforms, as well as private sector growth, have led to an improved business climate. However, there are major hindrances to economic growth in the country, such as political uncertainty, corruption and security challenges. Afghanistan has been actively engaged in regional economic cooperation so as to improve its economy but also assist in bringing stability to the region. However, the marked positive economic impact of these projects, such as Chahbahar Port, Lapis Lazuli Corridor and the Air Corridor programme, will not come immediately. In order for Afghanistan to become a donor-free economy, it will need the support of South Asian countries, particularly in terms of investment in the private sector as well as more active engagement in trade. Bringing economic stability to Afghanistan in indubitably one of the most effective methods for countering the insurgency, particularly in impoverished communities that turn to negative coping mechanisms such as joining insurgent movements to support their families. They say a rising tide lifts all boats and this could ring more true for South Asia. The countries in the region must understand that their fate is intertwined with Afghanistan’s. A strategic alliance and cooperation between Afghanistan and South Asian countries in areas of mutual interest, be it economic, security, education, or sociocultural, will help the region realise its truest potentials. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Fates intertwined: Afghanistan can help South Asia rise

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-britain-eu-of-hypocrisy-over-canada-detentions-concerns-186148">China</a> plays a significant and influential role in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-leader-replaces-top-security-chiefs-in-major-shake-up-186004">Afghanistan</a>'s peace process as a good neighbour and world superpower, according to the former Afghan president Hamid Karzai.

Karzai made the remarks during a recent interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN) in south China's Guangzhou City, where he was attending the 2018 Imperial Springs International Forum earlier this month.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-role-in-afghanistan-peace-process-crucial-pakistan-183213">The peace process in Afghanistan </a>has recently come back into focus after the United States said it is considering a substantial reduction of US troops in Afghanistan, with US President Donald Trump last week dramatically calling for the withdrawal of troops from Syria.

Referring to the recent US-led peace initiative, which saw meetings with the Qatar-based leaders of the Taliban earlier this year, Karzai said he hopes these efforts will succeed and expects some major countries in the region to take parts, such as China and Russia.

"Just recently the United States has launched a new initiative for peace in Afghanistan and we hope it succeeds. But the latest US initiative for peace in Afghanistan will bear fruits only when they fully keep the Afghan people on board, and in charge. And when they genuinely see corporation from major powers who are our neighbours. China for example, is our neighbour, and a superpower in the world. Russia, in the same way, and our neighbours as well. Therefore, a successful US effort for peace will mean Afghanistan doing its part fully and independently and the US seeking the corporation of China. That will bring us peace and I'm sure that if the US extends its hands of corporation to China, China will support it and Russia will support it as well," said Karzai.

Aside from the peace process within Afghanistan, Karzai, who had a 13-year tenure as Afghanistan's leader, thinks China can also play a constructive role in ensuring regional stability by improving the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

"China and Pakistan being always friends, we see it as a positive, we see it as good. We want China's friendship with Pakistan to expand, to deepen. We are also a great friend of China and a good neighbour of China. And China has been a tremendous ally and supporter to Afghanistan as well. Therefore, Chinese friendship with Pakistan, we see, as an asset towards positive. And we, for this reason, have been seeking China's participation and contribution to improving relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and together all the two of us, effectively fight against extremists," said the former president.

Karzai also shared his views about the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which he believes is an effective platform for promoting wider corporation within the region.

"The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is an effective instrument for stability and corporation in our larger region. And we're glad that all the three major powers of the region — China, Russia, India, are part of it. So is Pakistan, so are countries of central Asia — Turkey as well and Iran. And Afghanistan is an observer. So India's joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, we see it as a positive development and we hope that through the cooperative working within this organization, Afghanistan will be one of the first beneficiaries of Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he said.

Karzai was speaking on the sidelines of the Imperial Springs International Forum, which opened in Guangzhou on December 10. The event gathered some 200 former world leaders, renowned scholars and business elites to discuss the theme of advancing reform and opening-up, and promoting win-win cooperation.

China plays a significant and influential role in Afghanistan's peace process as a good neighbour and world superpower, according to the former Afghan president Hamid Karzai.

China plays a significant and influential role in Afghanistan's peace process as a good neighbour and world superpower, according to the former Afghan president Hamid Karzai. Karzai made the remarks during a recent interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN) in south China's Guangzhou City, where he was attending the 2018 Imperial Springs International Forum earlier this month. The peace process in Afghanistan has recently come back into focus after the United States said it is considering a substantial reduction of US troops in Afghanistan, with US President Donald Trump last week dramatically calling for the withdrawal of troops from Syria. Referring to the recent US-led peace initiative, which saw meetings with the Qatar-based leaders of the Taliban earlier this year, Karzai said he hopes these efforts will succeed and expects some major countries in the region to take parts, such as China and Russia. "Just recently the United States has launched a new initiative for peace in Afghanistan and we hope it succeeds. But the latest US initiative for peace in Afghanistan will bear fruits only when they fully keep the Afghan people on board, and in charge. And when they genuinely see corporation from major powers who are our neighbours. China for example, is our neighbour, and a superpower in the world. Russia, in the same way, and our neighbours as well. Therefore, a successful US effort for peace will mean Afghanistan doing its part fully and independently and the US seeking the corporation of China. That will bring us peace and I'm sure that if the US extends its hands of corporation to China, China will support it and Russia will support it as well," said Karzai. Aside from the peace process within Afghanistan, Karzai, who had a 13-year tenure as Afghanistan's leader, thinks China can also play a constructive role in ensuring regional stability by improving the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. "China and Pakistan being always friends, we see it as a positive, we see it as good. We want China's friendship with Pakistan to expand, to deepen. We are also a great friend of China and a good neighbour of China. And China has been a tremendous ally and supporter to Afghanistan as well. Therefore, Chinese friendship with Pakistan, we see, as an asset towards positive. And we, for this reason, have been seeking China's participation and contribution to improving relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and together all the two of us, effectively fight against extremists," said the former president. Karzai also shared his views about the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which he believes is an effective platform for promoting wider corporation within the region. "The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is an effective instrument for stability and corporation in our larger region. And we're glad that all the three major powers of the region — China, Russia, India, are part of it. So is Pakistan, so are countries of central Asia — Turkey as well and Iran. And Afghanistan is an observer. So India's joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, we see it as a positive development and we hope that through the cooperative working within this organization, Afghanistan will be one of the first beneficiaries of Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he said. Karzai was speaking on the sidelines of the Imperial Springs International Forum, which opened in Guangzhou on December 10. The event gathered some 200 former world leaders, renowned scholars and business elites to discuss the theme of advancing reform and opening-up, and promoting win-win cooperation.

Video: China plays significant role in Afghan peace process, says former president Karzai

China plays significant role in Afghan peace process: former president

Former President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai has urged the United States not to deal with Pakistan while making efforts to initiate an inclusive peace process in the war-torn country.

Addressing a gathering marking the 90th death anniversary of Professor Dr Sayed Meer Bahauddin Majroh in Kabul, Tolonews quoted the Former President as saying, "We completely differentiate the fact that what the Afghan peace means and what is the issue between the US and Pakistan. Our country was devastated just because of foreign deals."

Former President Karzai said that in order to accelerate the peace process in Afghanistan, it is very important to take the neighbouring countries, especially Russia and China into confidence.

He also added that the participation of the Afghan people is a primary concern here.

"No angle of the peace process should be hidden from the people. Otherwise, Afghanistan would be devastated," the former President warned.

"We should have our own national observation of the peace process from the beginning to the end and Afghans must be involved in peace at all stages and they should have the honour of the job. In the area where we are not involved and we do not own the job, the outcome will not be in our favour," Karzai said.

The former President also suggested that in order to bring the Taliban to a point of negotiation, the Afghan government should designate a national peace delegation.

For the past several years, Washington has been trying to persuade the Taliban to come to the negotiating table and formulate a peace process to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan.

However, the Taliban claim that the presence of foreign troops in the war-torn nation was a hindrance to achieving long-lasting peace. 
&nbsp;

Former President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai has urged the United States not to deal with Pakistan while making efforts to initiate an inclusive peace process in the war-torn country.

Former President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai has urged the United States not to deal with Pakistan while making efforts to initiate an inclusive peace process in the war-torn country. Addressing a gathering marking the 90th death anniversary of Professor Dr Sayed Meer Bahauddin Majroh in Kabul, Tolonews quoted the Former President as saying, "We completely differentiate the fact that what the Afghan peace means and what is the issue between the US and Pakistan. Our country was devastated just because of foreign deals." Former President Karzai said that in order to accelerate the peace process in Afghanistan, it is very important to take the neighbouring countries, especially Russia and China into confidence. He also added that the participation of the Afghan people is a primary concern here. "No angle of the peace process should be hidden from the people. Otherwise, Afghanistan would be devastated," the former President warned. "We should have our own national observation of the peace process from the beginning to the end and Afghans must be involved in peace at all stages and they should have the honour of the job. In the area where we are not involved and we do not own the job, the outcome will not be in our favour," Karzai said. The former President also suggested that in order to bring the Taliban to a point of negotiation, the Afghan government should designate a national peace delegation. For the past several years, Washington has been trying to persuade the Taliban to come to the negotiating table and formulate a peace process to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan. However, the Taliban claim that the presence of foreign troops in the war-torn nation was a hindrance to achieving long-lasting peace.

Former Afghan President Karzai asks US not to deal with Pakistan on peace process