ISAS Insights

This paper examines the prospects of peace and stability of Afghanistan after the expected withdrawal of foreign forces from an unsuccessful war lasting 18 years. In fact, Afghanistan’s troubles predate this war. For more than four decades, it has only seen strife and tension, while struggling with the building of modern political institutions and structure of governance reflecting its historical state and nation-building challenges. The Taliban were just one among many of these challenges the current war could not resolve. The United States (US) and the Taliban are now talking to end the war. However, for a lasting solution for Afghanistan, the countries in the region and the US have to remain committed for Afghanistan’s sake and for their own sake. Pakistan has a crucial role to play to put pressure on the Taliban to share power. It will not do so without a new relationship with Afghanistan that accommodates its security and strategic interests. And Washington must remain engaged with both Afghanistan and Pakistan. It should also develop some understanding with India, China and Russia. Without these arrangements, the Americans may leave but the conflict could continue with a different name.