Defence & Diplomacy: Prospects of renewing Peace Talks in Afghanistan

The situation in Afghanistan has worsened after heightened terror attacks and the rising militancy by the Taliban. Prospects for peace have been pushed further back because of the advent of the Daesh. China and US are also trying hard but the key factor here is better understanding between Pakistan and the Afghan Government. After making a great start, the Afghan Government has become disillusioned with Pakistan and casts aspersions. Whereas Pakistan does have contacts with the Taliban, contrary to popular belief, Pakistan does not control their puppet strings. The Afghans, including the Taliban are a fiercely independent race, who refuse to take orders from anyone, let alone Pakistan. They can only be coaxed to come to the negotiation table and coerced. Afghanistan needs to be patient while Pakistan must show maturity and restraint and not respond to Afghan barbs and taunts.
Participants:
Atle Hetland (Norwegian Social Scientist)
Brig. Ishaq Khattak (Defence Analyst)
Host: S. M. Hali