Sir: Pakistan and Afghanistan are not just simple neighbours but knitted in multiple relations since ages. Apart from common faith, culture, traditions and tribal binding, both countries also have economic interdependence for several decades. They are mutually supportive on daunting security and counterterrorism issues that are not homegrown but externally inflicted. When the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan, Pakistan accommodated millions of refugees who are still benefiting from our hospitality despite hardships. Recent steps taken by the leaders of both the countries prudently ascribed by China for peace and stability of the region are understandably becoming a source of irritation for many. Such exasperations are shown chiefly in view of the US’s not so hidden desire to see India seeking a role to become a counterweight to China in Afghanistan. While Pakistan and China in all sincerity are keen to bring peace and also turn Afghanistan’s potential wealth into a real source of economic strength, analysts like Musa Khan Jalalzai, author of the book Punjabi Taliban, has tried to controversially construe several important issues including former President General Musharraf’s politically motivated assertions about Afghanistan. As a patriotic Pakistani, I feel that each segment of Pakistan’s society, including the political and military leadership, are fully united on the single point of achieving peace, progress and stability in Afghanistan, which cannot afford any more predicaments. President Ashraf Ghani must be given credit for forging unity within Afghanistan and also applauded for his wisdom of bilateral cooperation with Pakistan and all other friendly countries on the issue of countering violent terrorism in the region. Mr Jalalzai being a well informed person is expected to avoid exaggerated interpretations in an environment when Pakistan and Afghanistan are on a path of genuine rapprochement to untie past shackles. ATTAULLAH BANGASHPeshawar