Maulana Fazlur Rehman: Pakistan cannot solve its problems with its neighbors through threats

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Kabul: Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan party, told reporters on Thursday that Islamabad cannot solve its security issues with its neighbors through threats.

 

He added: "If Pakistan is not willing to give up its independence at any cost, it should not violate the national sovereignty of the neighboring country." According to him, the two brotherly and Islamic countries should regulate their relations based on the principle of equality.

 

Referring to the visit of the foreign minister of the neighboring country to India, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that Pakistan should review its foreign policy towards that country so that a bigger problem does not arise.

 

He also stated that the problem of the Pakistani army is that it “fights and negotiates at the same time,” adding: “Those who fight cannot negotiate; and those who negotiate cannot fight. Leave this task to us; we, who were successful in the past, will succeed now too.”

 

Pakistan, which claims that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan group operates from neighboring soil, carried out airstrikes in Kabul and Paktika provinces about three weeks ago. The rulers in the neighboring country have denied the existence of these sanctuaries.

 

According to a report by the Dawn newspaper, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said in a press conference that “peace talks are the only way forward” and that his country’s government should review its foreign policy.

 

The Swarajya website also writes that he accused the Pakistani army of “always fighting and negotiating at the same time” and said that his country should not enter a war that creates trouble for itself.

 

Other reports suggest that efforts have been made to mediate between the two countries.

 

According to experts, Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s statements reflect dissatisfaction within Pakistan over the current course of tensions with the neighboring country. Studies suggest that with these statements, he is trying to present a different voice to the dominant security policy of his country; a voice that calls for a “relationship based on dialogue” and “mutual respect.” According to experts, although his emphasis on negotiations is positive, realizing this approach requires strong will, changes in military and security policies, and a genuine acceptance of common interests. In the absence of these factors, the risk of continuing tensions and escalating conflicts remains.