Afghan-Pakistan relations have historically been fraught and tense, with roots dating back to the partition of British India in the mid-20th century, amidst border clashes.
The main source of friction is the Durand Line, a 2,670-km border established in 1893 between Afghanistan and what was then British India: now Pakistan.
Afghanistan has never formally recognised the border, creating ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Pashtun Question
One significant issue is the Pashtun question.
Pashtuns are the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan and a significant part of the population in Pakistan, especially in the border areas.
Afghanistan disputes the legitimacy of the 1947 referendum that brought the eastern Pashtun areas into Pakistan, complicating bilateral relations.
Many Afghan leaders have historically called for a “Greater Pashtunistan,” an independent state for Pashtuns, further straining ties. Meanwhile, Pakistan views any Afghan claims over its Pashtun territories as a direct threat to its sovereignty.
The presence of Pashtun militant groups on both sides of the border exacerbates tensions, leading to frequent accusations of cross-border support for insurgencies.
Recent Border Clashes
The Afghan-Pakistani border has remained volatile in recent years.
In December 2024, heavy fighting broke out between the Taliban and Pakistani forces in Khost and Paktia provinces.
According to the Afghan side, Pakistani airstrikes destroyed training centers and killed civilians, prompting Afghan promises of retaliation. ​
In March 2025, clashes broke out between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the Torkham border crossing, killing at least one fighter and injuring several others. The crossing is vital for trade and food imports into Afghanistan, especially during Ramadan, when food needs are highest.
The closure of the crossing for 10 days led to a backlog of thousands of trucks carrying goods, worsening the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Path to Stability
The instability between Afghanistan and Pakistan is affecting the security and economic development of the entire region.
Both countries accuse each other of supporting terrorist groups, which contributes to deepening religious differences and destabilisation.
Joint efforts to build trust, cooperate in the fight against terrorism and resolve border disputes are needed to stabilise the situation.
Only through dialogue and mutual respect can long-term peace and stability in the region be achieved.
Terrorism Allegations
Afghanistan claims that Pakistan supports the Taliban, while Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.
The situation complicates regional security, as major powers such as the United States, China, India and Russia play a role in the fight against terrorism.
Every states’ involvement affects military strategies and diplomatic negotiations in South Asia.
Impact of CPEC
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is affecting Afghan-Pakistan relations by boosting Pakistan’s economy and infrastructure.
As Afghanistan seeks to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative, security concerns and political instability pose challenges.
China remains interested in expanding its influence in the region, but unresolved border tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan complicate cooperation.
Afghanistan’s potential inclusion in CPEC could change the dynamics of regional trade.
Regional Tensions
International organisations such as the UN, SCO, and OIC have called for dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan, emphasising regional stability. Ongoing border clashes threaten Central Asia and the Middle East, affecting trade and security.
Diplomatic efforts, including mediation by China and the Gulf states, are aimed at easing tensions.
However, mutual mistrust and security concerns complicate negotiations.
Border disputes, ethnic divisions, and security concerns fuel long-standing tensions.
While international organisations push for diplomatic solutions, regional mistrust and strategic rivalries impede progress.
Economic cooperation and confidence-building measures remain critical to achieving lasting stability. Without mutual compromise, instability will persist, affecting regional security and economic growth.
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