The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government’s recent request for federal approval to engage with the Afghan Taliban highlights a necessary shift toward constitutional limits—but continues to raise questions about whether provincial authorities are neglecting their domestic responsibilities in a bid to influence foreign affairs.
In September 2024, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur announced plans to send a provincial delegation to Afghanistan to discuss bilateral issues. In his announcement, he made clear he intended to bypass the federal government, drawing criticism over exceeding his mandate, as foreign negotiations are not the jurisdiction of provincial governments. The decision further reflected a breakdown in coordination between provincial and federal authorities, hampering efforts to address cross-border security challenges in sharp opposition to Gandapur’s stated claims.
The PTI-led provincial government’s new approach, proceeding with federal approval, points to healthier ties between KP and the center. Cohesive strategies are essential when dealing with complex international relations, especially when KP remains a frontline province in the ongoing resurgence of terrorism across Pakistan. Yet, this same terrorism will undoubtedly hamper KP’s attempts at dialogue.
Multiple diplomatic engagements and even unilateral aerial strikes on suspected militant hideouts inside Afghanistan have thus far failed to yield any positive results from the Taliban. Militant groups continue to operate from across the border, undermining peace efforts and posing severe threats to Pakistan’s security. Last week’s suicide bombing in Nowshera highlights the very real risks facing Pakistani security forces and civilians alike. Resolving this issue should take top priority for the federation—but cannot justify the province abdicating its responsibilities.
Within KP, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has openly criticized the provincial administration for failing to establish peace or reduce corruption. The PTI has rejected these allegations, but failed to negate the impression that police lack sufficient resources to tackle the growing security threat.
Rather than worrying about foreign affairs, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government must direct its focus to internal governance. Addressing external issues without first ensuring internal stability cannot yield desired outcomes. Achieving lasting peace and stability in the country requires all arms of the state to operate within their constitutional ambits. This requires provincial governments to concentrate on local governance and security and the federal government to lead foreign policy initiatives to foster cooperation against cross-border terrorism. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, specifically, must strengthen police resources, tackle corruption and improve local security mechanisms.
Only a unified and coordinated approach, respecting the delineation of responsibilities, can effectively restore the state’s writ and rid Pakistan of renewed terrorism.