Call for Responsible Diplomacy Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
Ashrafi Urges Respectful Engagement with Afghan Officials
Afghanistan-Officials from the Afghan Consulate in Pakistan are accused of violating diplomatic decorum during an event in Peshawar on Tuesday, leading the Foreign Office to summon the Afghan Charge d’Affaires for an official protest.
Experts have suggested that the consul general should be deemed undesirable and sent back to Afghanistan. They have also questioned the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s choice to invite him, raising concerns about their respect for Pakistan’s dignity and diplomatic standards.
In reaction to the development, the Foreign Office stated that the Afghan consul general’s actions were contrary to diplomatic protocols. A FO spokesperson added that decisions have been made to lodge protests in both Islamabad and Kabul.
Afghan Consulate officials in Pakistan are facing allegations of breaching diplomatic decorum during an event in Peshawar on Tuesday, prompting the Foreign Office to summon the Afghan Charge d’Affaires for a formal protest.
The officials were invited by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to attend the Rahmat-ul-Alamin Conference in the provincial capital.
Some experts argue that the consul general should be considered undesirable and sent back to Afghanistan. They have also questioned the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s decision to invite him, expressing concerns about their commitment to Pakistan’s dignity and diplomatic norms.
Sources added that the FO summoned the Afghan Charge d’Affaires and lodged a “strong protest” with him, condemning the “disrespect” shown to the national anthem.
In response, the Afghan Consulate spokesperson explained that the officials remained seated because of the “music played during the anthem,” insisting there was no intent to disrespect Pakistan’s national anthem. They emphasized that the officials had no desire to dishonor it.
The spokesperson also mentioned that a ban has been imposed on music during their own national anthem. “If the anthem had been played without music, they would have stood and placed their hands over their hearts,” they asserted.
Additionally, sources indicate that Afghan official Shakir does not have a valid Afghan passport. It is reported that he and his family returned to Afghanistan in 2015 on a Proof of Registration (PoR) card.
They added that the PoR card has long expired, and as of September 1, all Afghan refugees, including Mohibullah and his family, are residing “illegally” in Pakistan as the interior ministry has not granted any further extensions.
Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Allama Tahir Ashrafi expressed his disappointment over the Afghan officials’ decision to remain seated during the Pakistani national anthem. He stated, “This behavior is not something even our enemies would exhibit. It is essential for Pakistan to engage with responsible individuals in this matter.”
Ashrafi emphasized the importance of the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, referring to Afghanistan as a “brotherly nation” and underscoring the value placed on Afghans within Pakistan. He remarked that while the two countries share deep historical and cultural ties, there can be no compromise when it comes to Pakistan’s dignity and respect.
The incident, which has drawn significant attention, raises questions about diplomatic decorum and mutual respect. Ashrafi’s comments highlight the need for diplomatic representatives to act in ways that foster goodwill and understanding between nations. He called for a more responsible approach from Afghan officials to avoid such misunderstandings in the future.
Moreover, Ashrafi pointed out that gestures of respect, particularly during national anthems, are fundamental to maintaining diplomatic relations. He urged both governments to work towards strengthening their ties, reminding that mutual respect is crucial for peaceful coexistence.
In conclusion, Allama Tahir Ashrafi’s statements reflect a desire for constructive dialogue and a more respectful approach in diplomatic interactions. By recognizing Afghanistan as a brotherly nation while firmly upholding Pakistan’s dignity, he advocates for a balanced relationship that prioritizes respect and cooperation. Such an approach is essential for fostering a positive atmosphere that benefits both countries.
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