Afghanistan Reassurance Key to Progress
Senator Rana Sanaullah, Pakistan’s Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, has said that successful negotiations with Afghanistan are achievable once the Afghan side is fully reassured. Speaking from Islamabad, he stated that Afghanistan has already received one round of reassurance, and providing a couple more assurances could pave the way for productive dialogue.
Negotiations cannot move forward until Afghanistan feels completely assured, he said. Once they are reassured one or two more times, the matters will be resolved.
Strategic Approach Over Military Action
Rana Sanaullah highlighted the strategic considerations regarding Pakistan’s regional interactions. He referenced India as a significant power, noting that its military is roughly five times larger than Pakistan’s. However, he emphasized that Pakistan’s field marshals have adopted a measured approach, prioritizing dialogue over confrontation.
He drew a historical parallel, citing Khalid ibn al-Walid, a prominent military commander in early Islamic history. The victory at the Battle of Yarmouk was a result of strategic leadership. Without such guidance, the outcome might have been very different, Sanaullah said. He suggested that Pakistan’s current military leadership demonstrates similar foresight, courage, and strategic thinking.
He added, There is no need for concern on the military front. The focus should instead be on internal political stability.
Addressing Domestic Political Concerns
Rana Sanaullah also addressed domestic political developments, specifically rumors about a potential governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He denied these reports, stating that no such plan is under consideration. He appealed to the provincial Chief Minister to adopt a careful and conciliatory tone to help resolve ongoing issues.
Regarding the judiciary, he noted that the court had not issued any clear instructions about the Chief Minister’s meetings, and he urged that the matter not be politicized unnecessarily.
Reflection on Personal Experience
The advisor also reflected on his personal experience during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, mentioning that he spent six months in detention and was only allowed to meet with his lawyer and family. He urged PTI leadership to respond positively to the Prime Minister’s offer of a Charter of Democracy.
According to Sanaullah, Pakistan now has the potential to reach the vision envisioned by the country’s founders. With strategic thinking, political stability, and constructive dialogue, we can achieve the goals our founders dreamed of, he said.
