What are the implications of this crisis on the economic, social, and political development of Pakistan and Afghanistan?
The question put to us was whether these events represent a radical break from the past, opening up new avenues for development, or a transitory blip soon to be overwhelmed by the weight of history? It is apparent from the submissions received that history remains a potent force shaping events in the region. At the same time, admonishments not to repeat the mistakes of the past were paired with hopes for the possibilities of the future. Repeating the past: It was suggested that without concerted efforts to break the pattern of foreign power involvement in Afghan affairs, and strong international support for the establishment an effective government representative of all Afghan communities, the lack of political and economic stability in Afghanistan would spill over the border into Pakistan with disastrous effects. The need for strong central government authorities (and what one writer described as a “father figure”) was also advocated, with reference made to the porous nature of the Af
