Afghan Peace Needs a Map

The war in Afghanistan has become mired by a lack of strategic vision on the part of the Western alliance amid turmoil both in the country and abroad. In an article published in China’s official China Daily, Li Qinggong, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Council for National Security Policy Studies notes, the war is a “source of ceaseless turbulence” that has not brought peace, security, or any “tangible benefits” to the US. Hence, the US should “should end its military action” and withdraw from the country. Furthermore, reconciliation among the Taliban, the warlords, and the Afghan government is needed. In fact, Li believes the international community – particularly European nations – should pressure the US to withdraw its troops. In place of the US military, Li recommends international peacekeepers move in to provide security. In the end, with the US public opinion turning against the Afghan war, President Obama should not bet his career on an unpopular war, the author recommends. But the big questions remain: which countries will contribute troops to an international peace-keeping force in Afghanistan, can one accept the Taliban leadership, and how to deal with Al Qaeda? – YaleGlobal