Hafiz Hamdullah, a senior leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) party, has expressed strong criticism regarding taking the role of the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, suggesting that it might be more fruitful to engage in selling ‘pakoras’ than to assume such a position. Hamdullah's remarks were made in response to recent comments by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur concerning dialogue with Afghanistan. While taking with private TV channel, JUI-F leader Hamdullah questioned why there can be discussions with India but not with Afghanistan. He criticized the federal government’s stance on engaging with neighboring countries, highlighting the Chief Minister's frustration with the federal administration's lack of progress in addressing regional issues. According to Hamdullah, the Chief Minister's call for talks with Afghanistan reflects the urgent need for dialogue, especially in light of ongoing regional challenges. Hamidullah emphasized that if the federal government is unwilling to engage with Afghanistan, the position of the Governor holds little value.

He suggested that the Governor's role would be more beneficial if it were reimagined or replaced with more practical endeavors like selling pakoras. In contrast, Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah Shaki, who is stationed in Peshawar, met with Chief Minister Gandapur on Thursday to discuss various bilateral issues. The discussions focused on enhancing trade, promoting regional peace and stability, and addressing challenges faced by Afghan citizens residing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Chief Minister KP Gandapur highlighted the deep-rooted connections between the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Afghanistan, noting their shared linguistic, religious, cultural, and human ties. He stressed the importance of establishing sustainable peace in the region, which he believes will benefit both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Gandapur called for the formation of a Jirga by the federal government to facilitate discussions with Afghanistan, and advocated for the removal of trade barriers and the establishment of a dedicated desk at the Pak-Afghan border to support Afghan traders.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan