Peshawar. November 15,2024: The launch ceremony of the book “Taqweem (Twenty Years of the Afghan War)” by Atiq Ahmed Siddiqui, a renowned columnist originally from Peshawar and now based in the United States, was held at the China Window, Pakistan-China Friendship and Cultural Center in Peshawar. The event was presided over by Professor Dr. Qibla Ayaz, former Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology, with Professor Dr. Syed Amjad Hussain serving as the chief guest. Attended by prominent academics, writers, and intellectuals, the gathering celebrated Siddiqui’s work, which compiles 100 columns offering profound insights into the socio-political impact of the Afghan War.
Dr. Qibla Ayaz, former Chairman of the Islamic Ideology Council, former Vice Chancellor of Peshawar University, and Member of the Shariat Appellate Panel of the Supreme Court, praised the works of author Atiq Ahmed Siddiqui. Addressing the audience, he highlighted that Siddiqui’s columns on the Afghan war are a significant part of history, and the diversity presented in his latest book will be an invaluable resource for future researchers.Dr. QiblaAyaz emphasized the enduring bond between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stating, “We have always shown love and affection for the Afghan people. Now, it is time for Afghanistan to support us in addressing the issue of the TTP. Their cooperation is essential, especially as our economy is increasingly tied to CPEC, China, and its future projects.”
He underscored the pivotal role of harmonious relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan for the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “The future of not only Pakistan but also Afghanistan is interconnected with CPEC. If relations between the two countries do not improve, trade links between South Asia and Central Asia will face significant setbacks,” he remarked.Dr. Qibla Ayaz also commended the depth and relevance of Atiq Ahmed Siddiqui’s book, noting that it provides comprehensive insights into these critical issues. He added that the book would serve as a vital reference for Afghan scholars and researchers.
Professor Dr. Syed Amjad Hussain, along with other distinguished speakers, commended Siddiqui’s ability to connect past events with current realities and future possibilities. They praised his engaging writing style, exceptional word choice, and the vivid manner in which he presented the impacts of the Afghan War. Former Air vice Marshal Faiz Amir, Nasir Ali Syed, Mushtaq Shabab, Dr.Raza Rehman Qazi, Prof.Dr.Gulzar Jalal, Dr.Syed Zubair Shah, Dr.Qudratullah Khattak and Tahir Mehmood also acknowledged the significance of Siddiqui’s work in capturing the historical essence of a war that reshaped regional dynamics.
In his video message, Atiq Ahmed Siddiqui expressed his deep connection to his Peshawar roots despite living in the United States. He shared that the collection represents decades of dedicated writing, with a focus on Pak-US relations and Pakistan-Taliban dynamics. He called it the first phase of his broader mission to document critical issues impacting the region.
The event also featured a moving poetic tribute by Bushra Farrukh, who celebrated Siddiqui’s literary achievements. The ceremony concluded with the formal unveiling of the book, leaving attendees with a sense of its significance as a timeless resource for scholars and readers alike.
