Pakistan–Afghanistan Relations Since 9/11 Security, Foreign Policy, and Regional Dynamics

Abstract

Pakistan and Afghanistan share a complex and historically layered relationship shaped by strategic, political, cultural, and economic principles. Under general Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan’s foreign policy toward Afghanistan experienced noteworthy transformations. Scrutiny of global events such as 9/11 and the U.S.-led War on Terror were significant and shaped Afghan foreign policy. Civilian administrations continued to maneuver the contentious policymaking environment. Civilian administrations continued to address the Taliban insurgency, trans-border terrorism, and a web of trade and strategic issues. This article reviews the foreign policy of Musharraf, the Afghani Taliban, the PPP government, and Pakistan’s primary interests, encompassing geopolitical, economic, and national interests, while engaging in a multitude of stake holder issues and assessing the impact on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and on Afghanistan’s trade.