نظرونه - Opinion

This opinion is brought to your attention with no ulterior motives in mind.

Pakistan recently published an important document entitled "Pakistan, the United States and the End Game in Afghanistan: Perceptions of Pakistan's Foreign Policy Elite," which needs thorough study, analysis, open discussion and thoughtful reaction by Afghans, who share basic national interests and shared values.

However, there seems to have been little said or written about the report in Afghan circles in Kabul or elsewhere. I have come across a few references concerning the basic thrust of the report in the Kabul media and a few knee-jerk reactions, but little else.

It seems that the content of this analysis and policy recommendations paper (written in conjunction with visiting fellows affiliated with the United States Institute of Peace) reflects the evolving thinking among Pakistan's ruling establishment. Should it not concern us since it addresses not only bilateral relations, but also Afghan sovereignty, national security and our future as a dignified nation state?

It appears that we are busy with less significant matters. Should we not finally put aside for a moment our petty bickering and politicking, and our insignificant, yet harmful, jealousies and rivalries to find the peace of mind necessary to brainstorm about vital national interests and strategic denominators?

We have fallen into the quicksand of mutual neutralization, and derive great pleasure from it, while others are talking about our "endgame," promoting their interests, and using our dismal conditions to their advantage.

People would like to hear from our policymakers and intellectuals, as well as those who are part of the think tank and analysis world, about what they think regarding the specifics of this paper: how does it change (or not change) our direction? How does Afghanistan formulate a response or counter-argument through consultation, debate and co-ordination? What mechanisms are there to inform our public and relay the Afghan viewpoint to the world community?

Of course, there are pre-requisites involved for all these questions that make it even more necessary to put our minds into seeking a "grand common Afghan strategy" where our national interests are defined and, given our differences - political and personal - where we strive to formulate a common vision for our country.

The year-long tensions involving the three branches of government are untenable. Those who instigated and propagated the crisis by using unlawful political methods need to realise the harm they have inflicted upon the national good, and desist from further enticement.

Further delay in pulling back from crisis mode and initiating a grand dialogue within the country and with our key international backers will put us at great risk, giving more space to those who do not have the best interests of the country at heart.

Not only have countries like Pakistan and others established effective lobbies in key Western nations to defend their fundamental interests, but a quick glance demonstrates that almost every reputable Western think tank and academic institution has either a scholar or former high official from these nations involved as consultant, fellow or researcher of some sort.

Unfortunately, another glance shows that Afghans have neither a credible lobby, nor any other type of presence, which is so sorely needed during these critical times in the key western countries.

Some will claim that we should be proud to have more than 70 diplomatic/consular representations overseas doing the bidding for our cause - been there and done that as a former diplomat for almost 10 years! To my chagrin, I can claim that our foreign policy institution needs reinvigoration and serious reform; much of its capacity has diminished over the past few years. Whatever discourse and policymaking exists, it is all centred on one very limited clique with little creative input or balanced feedback involved.

How much longer can this state of affairs continue? Now is the time to come to our senses and re-engage in a sincere and game-free intra-Afghan deliberation aimed at defining and defending the country's fundamental interests.

Omar Samad was Ambassador to France (2009-2011), Canada (2004-2009) and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2001-2004).