Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 04/2011

Seeking Solutions for Afghanistan: A Report on the Abu Dhabi Process

August 2010

EastWest Institute

Abstract

The governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan have accepted a generous proposal from the government of Abu Dhabi to host a series of meetings facilitated by the EastWest Institute (EWI) to complement existing channels of communication between the two countries. Participants in the series, known as the Abu Dhabi Process, discuss areas of their relationship they believe will help build confidence, ensure greater stability, and enhance sustainable development in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The meetings are off-the-record, consultative in nature, and governed by the Chatham House Rule. This report summarizes discussions that were held at the opening meeting of the series, on June 19 and 20, 2010, in the Armed Forces Officers Club of Abu Dhabi. It reflects the views of a select group of Afghan and Pakistani politicians and diplomats, scholars, and former military officials.