Talking Afghanistan at The Hague

Several important perspectives on Afghanistan came up at the international conference in The Hague this week that was attended by about 90 states and international organisations. This brainstorming was different in that the Iranians attended it for the first time.

It is highly significant in view of recent US overtures to Iran and initiatives to seek a broader regional approach to the conflict in Afghanistan. Second, the meeting in The Hague came soon after President Obama launched his new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan that calls for increased civilian and military resources to support the international coalition’s efforts to fight the Taleban 
and Al Qaeda. The security and stabilisation of Afghanistan are particularly important to the neighbouring Gulf states both in terms of counter-terrorism and narcotic-trafficking. The UAE in particular has been actively involved for the past five years in supporting the stabilisation of Afghanistan in key areas such as reconstruction, development and security. Apart from the large-scale aid in reconstruction and development work in Afghanistan, to the tune of $550 million, the UAE has also contributed troops, currently numbered at 250, to support coalition efforts.

This vital force has played an important role in aiding reconstruction projects as well as humanitarian efforts in conflict areas. Reiterating its commitments to Afghanistan, the UAE has announced its decision to continue its troop presence in the country for the foreseeable future. This is particularly commendable when we consider that many European states are looking to pull out their forces under domestic pressure. The fact that the UAE forces, coming from a Muslim country, are more acceptable to the Afghan people is a factor that has helped them in their support missions. Further, the UAE’s role is also commendable because projects promoting employment, health and education are now seen as vital to a civilian strategy in the war-
ravaged country.

The Iranian participation was anticipated in view of Iran’s willingness to participate in helping Afghanistan towards stabilisation. Iran’s commitment to help international forces to counter opium production and trafficking of narcotics is important. The Afghan opiates are not only a major security concern for neighbouring Iran, Pakistan and Central Asian states but also serve as a vital financial supply line for 
the insurgents. Iran has also committed to helping in the development and reconstruction efforts inside Afghanistan. However, Iran argues that the continuing instability will not be alleviated with the increase or continued presence of 
foreign troops.

Afghanistan is likely to retain its strategic position as the current conflict promises an intense military engagement with the US vowing to dismantle and destroy Al Qaeda and its allied groups. While Pakistan prepares to meet international expectations about its obligations to help Afghanistan, the talks between President Asif Ali Zardari and Afghan President Hamid Karzai being held in Ankara could be an important indicator to gauge how the two will go about taking on the problems and challenges that confront the neighbours.