Context
Amid signs that diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan are improving, border security troops from the two neighboring countries exchanged fire on Wednesday in the tribal district of South Waziristan. Up to 12 Afghan National Army soldiers and one member of the Pakistani paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) died in the clash which took place near the Angoor Adda region of the district. At least three FC servicemen and eight civilians were also injured. The border clash is worrying as it comes amid deteriorating US-Pakistan ties. Moreover, Islamabad has reportedly advised Kabul to isolate itself from Washington and seek enhanced ties with countries like China- reports that Pakistan denies.
