The Afghan Game: Interests and Moves

In Afghanistan, the third Great Game is still on. The end of US–NATO combat operations in Afghanistan by the end of 2014 will be read by many as ‘Obama’s Vietnam’, but the retention of a small number of troops and several military facilities by the US in that country will be a source of worry for countries such as Russia, Iran and Pakistan who are concerned about US motives and moves in regard to the region, especially Central Asia’s energy resources which are already a target of international competition. India and Pakistan, who suspect each other’s motives in regard to Afghanistan, can significantly help it to achieve peace and development by pursuing a cooperative strategy. Their attitudes towards Afghanistan seem to be experiencing a positive change warranting mutual understanding and cooperation.