Shaping Stability: Regional Leaders Explore Afghanistan's Path to Connectivity

At the Doha Forum's second day, regional leaders focused on Afghanistan’s future through regional connectivity. Discussions emphasized the potential for Afghanistan to be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat, with engagement spreading across sectors like security. Special focus was also placed on fostering economic ties and resolving regional tensions.

On the second day of the Doha Forum, the spotlight centered on the theme 'Afghanistan's Recovery through Regional Connectivity,' as regional leaders and envoys deliberated on the nation's future. Uzbekistan's Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Ismatullah Irgashev, conveyed his country's perspective of Afghanistan as an opportunity, advocating engagement across diverse sectors, including security.

He emphasized that development and security are interdependent, underscoring Uzbekistan's broad cooperation with Afghanistan. Abdul Hai Qanit of Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted two prevailing international approaches towards Kabul since the Islamic Emirate's ascent: an economic strategy and a threat-based security paradigm. He argued that the economic approach is more effective and aligned with the Islamic Emirate's policy.

Qanit stressed the significance of regional connectivity and expressed Kabul's willingness to engage in dialogue with Islamabad to alleviate tensions. The Afghanistan-Pakistan relationship, he noted, is crucial for southern connectivity routes. Meanwhile, Qatar's Special Envoy Faisal bin Abdullah Al Hanzab highlighted Qatar's role in facilitating dialogue to mend Afghanistan-Pakistan disputes. The forum also spanned discussions on global issues featuring representatives from over 160 countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)