Absence of special envoy seen as Islamabad’s ‘reluctance’ to engage with IEA

Questions have been raised over Pakistan’s failure to appoint a new special envoy for Afghanistan after Asif Durrani, a retired diplomat, was removed from the post almost six weeks ago.

Sources familiar with the issue told Pakistan’s Express Tribune that Islamabad’s reluctance to appoint a new envoy “reflects Pakistan’s strategy to avoid extensive engagement with the Taliban (Islamic Emirate) government due to its ongoing support for the banned TTP (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan)”.

The Tribune reported that the government’s hesitation stems from the ineffectiveness of the role, given the minimal diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, adding that “officials at the Foreign Office believe they can manage Afghan affairs without needing a retired diplomat in the position”.

Regional countries and other stakeholders have typically appointed special representatives to address concerns and coordinate with international partners over issues relating to Afghanistan.

However, on September 10, the Pakistani government removed Durrani amid tensions with Kabul. No official explanation was provided.

The Tribune reports however, that tensions are running high, with Pakistan continuing to accuse the Islamic Emirate of not taking steps against the TTP in Afghanistan.

The Islamic Emirate meanwhile has repeatedly denied providing sanctuary to the militant group and has also urged Pakistan on numerous occasions to find a political settlement to the problem.

Pakistan, initially, did talk to the TTP at the request of the Islamic Emirate, but the talks soon collapsed and Pakistan saw an uptick in TTP attacks.