Dr Huma Baqai (Expert on International Relations): There is a huge potential of enhancing bilateral and economic relations among the Central Asian countries. Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Uzbekistan is aimed at enhancing the bilateral economic relations and discussing post withdrawal situation in Afghanistan with the Uzbek leadership. During the visit, highly significant MoUs have been signed to further strengthen bilateral ties. Regional connectivity has great significance for all the regional countries. Uzbekistan is a Muslim nation and it is expected that the country’s leadership would help strengthen Pakistan's narrative at International front. Uzbekistan’s support to Pakistan’s narrative on various regional issues carries huge significance. Pakistan has taken some bold decisions regarding Afghanistan and drew a red line. Pakistan can only facilitate Afghan peace and we would not become part of any conflict. Islamabad is committed to cooperate with Afghanistan for promoting peace; however Pakistan would not tolerate any blame game. The global community should recognize that Pakistan has paid a huge price for regional peace and stability.  

Dr Zahid Anwar Khan (Expert on International Relations): The Kabul government is habitual of leveling baseless allegations to hide its own failures in Afghanistan. Pakistan is playing a significant role to sustain durable peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan is only a facilitator in resolving Afghan dispute however it is not the sole responsibility of Pakistan. Islamabad desires durable peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan has a clear stance that Afghan-led and Afghan-owned is the only solution to Afghan dispute. India is playing the role of peace spoiler in Afghanistan.  

Lieutenant General, Retired, Naeem Khalid Lodhi (Defense Analyst): Pakistan has always been playing a proactive role to sustain durable peace in Afghanistan. The United States is making an irresponsible withdrawal from Afghanistan. It is highly unfortunate that despite Pakistan's unconditional support, the Kabul government has never appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghan peace. Afghan-led and afghan-owned peace process is the most viable solution to Afghan dispute. The regional countries must make collective efforts to resolve afghan dispute as it is not the sole responsibility of Pakistan. 

Lieutenant General, Retired, Asif Yaseen Malik (Defense Analyst): There will be some issues between war lords. Taliban have emerged as a political power in Afghanistan and no one in Afghanistan is in the position to fight with Taliban. Pakistan will continue to support all initiatives for peace, reconciliation in Afghanistan. The regional countries need to make collective efforts to restore peace in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, the world has never appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghan peace. AAfghanistan is the natural land bridge between Central Asia and South Asia, and peace in Afghanistan is the most critical factor for regional connectivity.