Diplomacy only solution for resolving Pak-Afghan tensions: Masood

ISLAMABAD: Masood Ahmed Khan, former AJK president and ambassador, recently emphasized diplomacy as the sole viable approach to resolving the current tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. During a lecture organized by the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA), Khan discussed the country's relations with Afghanistan, its economic potential, and the evolving role of public diplomacy.

Khan highlighted Pakistan's historical support for Afghan refugees while also acknowledging the hostile policies from the Afghan government. He stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement to address outstanding disputes and improve bilateral relations. Khan mentioned the government's efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with Afghanistan and referenced reports of the National Defence University inviting the Afghan ambassador to Pakistan.

He pointed out Pakistan's economic potential, citing a World Bank report stating that the nation could become the world's 10th-largest economy. Khan also discussed the role of Zakat in poverty alleviation, suggesting that a nationwide enforcement of a 2.5 percent Zakat system could significantly reduce poverty. In terms of public diplomacy, Khan noted that technological advancements and digital communication platforms had transformed traditional diplomatic practices.

He highlighted Pakistan's vast digital connectivity, with roughly 210 million mobile phone users and 160 million broadband subscribers, and emphasized the impact of social media on decision-making. Khan stressed the need for agricultural reforms, advocating for better utilization of foreign direct investment to strengthen the sector and boost economic growth.

He also underscored Pakistan's significant role at the United Nations and its engagement at the level of the UN secretary-general. Khan described Pakistan as a consequential state in West Asia, highlighting its economic potential as the country seeks diversified supply and value chains across Eurasia. He noted that Pakistan had received public acknowledgment from Washington for its contributions to peace in South and Central Asia and had earned the confidence of both Washington and Tehran in efforts to broker a ceasefire and facilitate direct talks.

Although no progress has been made yet, Khan continued to pursue all available avenues to end the war. ICMA President Muhammad Yasin and Ghulam Mustafa Qazi also addressed the audience.