Political Instabilities in Afghanistan: Implications for Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan and Afghanistan share the longest border in the northwest with each other. Afghanistan is the most influential factor for Pakistani policymakers in terms of foreign policy. Relations of both the countries have not been cordial since the inception of Pakistan. Internal circumstances affected Pakistan in one way or another during the Cold War era and the invasion of the USSR. Between different powers, this country became a focus regarding of interest after 9/11. The western border has become very uncertain due to Indian’s involvement. With relation to Afghanistan, Pakistan has always been a victim of instability. Pakistan's internal peace has greatly disrupted by the movement across the border. By smuggling weapons, drugs and terrorists anti-state actors have always used this border to destabilize the country. Being already weakened country, Pakistan overwhelmed by migration of a large number of Afghan citizens. To assess the effects of the instability in Afghanistan on Pakistan, numerous attempts are being made. In addition, this study will aim at the classification of the features and political objectives of the players concerned in the conflict on violence in Afghanistan. It will analyze the evolution of the peace course in Afghanistan as well as its significance for regional solidity.