What to Expect from the Upcoming Pakistan-Afghanistan Peace Jirga in Peshawar?
Upcoming Peace Jirga Aims to Ease Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
Islamabad: The Pakistan-Afghanistan peace jirga is set to take place in Peshawar on March 31, as announced by former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief secretary Arbab Shehzad Khan. This initiative aims to encourage leaders from both countries to reduce tensions and pursue peace, according to local media reports.
During a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, Khan, who leads Aspire Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, mentioned that the jirga is being organized in collaboration with Qaumi Islahi Tehreek. The event will see participation from national and political figures, tribal leaders, religious scholars, civil society members, traders, and Afghan residents in Pakistan, as reported by a prominent daily.
Khan stressed that warfare is not a viable solution and that dialogue is essential for resolving conflicts. He highlighted that the forum will concentrate on fostering sustainable peace through mutual respect, confidence-building measures, and negotiations. The jirga will call on the leadership of both nations to work towards de-escalating tensions.
The primary goal of the jirga is to establish a collaborative approach to promote peace, stability, and dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Following the event, a joint declaration advocating for peace will be released and forwarded to the respective governments.
In response to inquiries, Khan expressed optimism that the international community would motivate Afghan authorities to engage in negotiations with Pakistan, emphasizing that the citizens of both countries are suffering due to the ongoing strife.
He also noted the urgent need for immediate actions to secure lasting peace for the people of both nations and mentioned that invitations have been extended to political leaders who have previously contributed to peace efforts.
Recently, tensions have heightened between Afghanistan and Pakistan, marked by airstrikes, artillery exchanges, and mutual accusations.