A recent breach of diplomatic protocol recently occurred during a National Mercy Conference in Peshawar. The Afghan Consul General, Muhibullah Shakir, controversially refused to stand while Pakistan’s national anthem was played; he has caused much tension between both countries.

When the national anthem was played, all of them stood up as a gesture of respect except for Consul General Shakir and his colleagues. The move was perceived as a violation of diplomatic etiquettes since diplomats are supposed to show respect for the dominant laws and conventions of their host country. From the official records, sitting while the national anthem is being played is regarded as the highest form of violation in terms of etiquette.

Diplomatic Etiquette and Duties

Foreign diplomats are expected by diplomatic etiquette to accept the traditions and customs of the country into which they have been deployed. National symbols such as the anthem and the flag are a given. These will be regarded as not only acts of disrespect by the host country but also failures to observe basic norms in international diplomacy if one does not stand during the playing of the national anthem.

The matter close sources have indicated may escalate existing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Relations had already been strained between the two countries due to various factors, including security concerns, political disagreements, and border disputes.

Escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan

This relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has always witnessed ups and downs. Border clashes, allegations that one is harboring insurgents and disputes over the Durand Line have made this situation between these two nations so much tenser. Two nations with a long and complicated history have never found much coincidence in their efforts for cooperation, as mutual distrust usually has overshadowed the desire for cooperation.

The latest Afghan Consul General incident may be considered yet another blow to the diplomatic diplomacy. On one hand, letting it out that there was disrespect to the national anthem of Pakistan may appear as a very mundane affair but may lower the already weak ties between the two countries. It goes like a domino in such diplomatic cases, and this time of distrust and animosity might accelerate more.

Going forward

This incident needs diplomatic resolution from both nations to bring down the tensions. The Afghan Consulate in Peshawar should issue a formal apology or clarification to ease the tension between the two nations. At the same time, Pakistan must handle the situation with elan and ensure that the issue is not further inflamed.

The incident at the national anthem with Afghan Consul General has shocked many. As the leadership in Pakistan and Afghanistan remains locked in a tense standoff, this event reminds one of the diplomacy’s sensitivity. How both countries adapt to it will be critical in deciding what next for them.

Sources:https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/

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