Following Russia's Recognition of the Taliban, Pakistan Says It Will Not Rush to a Decision. Islamabad Clarified that the Decision Will Be Based Solely on National Interests.
Pakistan: Even three years after the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan, Pakistan has yet to officially recognize them. Following Russia's recent recognition of the Taliban regime, Pakistan has also responded to the issue. Pakistani officials say they will not be hasty in recognizing the Afghan Taliban government. The decision will be made only keeping national interests in mind.
Russia Officially Recognizes the Taliban
Russia has recently granted official recognition to the Afghan Taliban regime. This decision has become a topic of discussion globally as Russia has become the first major country to take the bold step of recognizing the Taliban government. Following this move, it was expected that other countries in the region, especially Pakistan, would also clarify their position soon.
'No Surprise': Pakistani Officials
Commenting on the matter, Pakistani officials have stated that Russia's decision is not surprising. According to the officials, Russia had already given clear indications that it would accept the Taliban in power. This decision is primarily based on Russia's geo-strategic interests and security concerns. Russia believes that engagement with the Taliban government could be helpful in dealing with terrorist threats.
Pakistan's Stance - 'Decision Will Be in National Interest'
The Pakistani government has clarified that it will prioritize only national interests in recognizing the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. A senior official, speaking to The Express Tribune, said that Islamabad will not be hasty in this matter for now. He said, "We will make a decision keeping our interests in mind. There will be no haste in this."
Looking at Regional Equations
Although Pakistan has not yet made a final decision, it is also being said that if other countries in the region such as Iran, China or Central Asian countries follow Russia's decision, then Pakistan may also be forced to adopt a more practical approach. Pakistani policymakers believe that any move will have to be made keeping in mind regional balance and strategic partnerships.
Pakistan's Relations with the Taliban
Pakistan and the Taliban have historically complex relations. Even though some analysts believe that Pakistan has supported the Taliban, strained relations have also been seen between the Taliban's Afghan government and Pakistan in recent years. The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is held responsible for the increasing terrorist attacks in Pakistan, particularly as it is active in the areas influenced by the Taliban. In such a situation, recognizing the Taliban becomes a serious decision for Pakistan, linked to domestic security.
