The reason for strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan is largely President Hamid Karzai’s lack of understanding of the situation in Fata. The problem lies in the communication gap created by vested interests and certain lobbies between the two countries. Islamabad also needs to do more to make its voice heard on this matter.
Unfortunately, it seems that a campaign has been launched to undermine Pakistan’s contribution towards Afghanistan’s rehabilitation. Saner elements there understand well that Afghanistan could not reach where it is now without Pakistan’s help. Not only Pakistan is still hosting millions of Afghan refugees everything that is bought and sold in Afghanistan goes via Pakistan. Yet nobody speaks of Pakistan’s contribution. They only remember ‘Taliban’s safe havens’ in Fata.
Also there exists a communication gap between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The government has banned Pakistani newspapers, except one, while Indian and western newspapers, periodicals and magazines are easily available. Having said that, both countries need to develop trust and support each other’s peace efforts since this is the only way to end terrorism and extremism in the region. For their part, both Nato and the Afghan government should not make Pakistan a scapegoat and need to look at their own shortcomings as well.