RASC News Agency: In a recent assembly in Pakistan, a group of prominent religious leaders called on the Taliban to actively cooperate with Pakistan in counterterrorism measures, emphasizing that such cooperation could facilitate the Taliban’s international recognition. Reports from Pakistani media indicate this was the fifth round of discussions among religious scholars, organized by the Pakistan Center for Research and Security Studies in Islamabad. The meeting reportedly included religious scholars from Afghanistan, though their identities were not disclosed.
Participants in the discussions acknowledged the presence of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) within Taliban-administered Afghanistan as a “reality,” sparking significant security concerns for Pakistan. Pakistani authorities believe the Taliban can play a constructive role in addressing and reducing this threat. The conference also underscored the issue of Afghanistani women’s rights, particularly their rights to work and education.
Participants highlighted that lifting the current restrictions on women’s fundamental rights could strengthen the Taliban’s pathway toward international recognition. The scholars warned that maintaining these limitations might negatively affect the Taliban’s acceptance on the world stage, risking reductions in global aid as Afghanistan faces a severe humanitarian crisis.
The scholars stressed that “terrorism” is a mutual threat to both Pakistan and Afghanistan, advocating for enhanced joint counterterrorism efforts. In their concluding remarks, they proposed creating special economic zones and increasing employment opportunities in border regions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. This initiative, they argued, could steer young individuals away from extremist groups and help combat poverty and unemployment in these areas.
Additionally, Qibla Ayaz, a member of Pakistan’s Shariat Appellate Bench, emphasized the importance of upholding state sovereignty in any dialogues involving government and non-state actors. Ayaz noted that no legitimate government should engage in negotiations with “terrorist” entities, highlighting that TTP poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s national security.
