At the height of 1380, when the US was preparing for a military attack on the Taliban, Pakistan was in a difficult situation. Islamabad was one of the Taliban's closest allies, recognized and supported the group's sovereignty, and had great influence over the Taliban's political and military leaders.
But after the September 11 attacks and increased American pressure, Pakistan had to choose between the Taliban, its former ally, and the United States, its strategic partner.
Pervez Musharraf, the then president and commander of Pakistan's army, accepted Washington's demands. He announced his support for the US-led international coalition in the fight against terrorism, provided Pakistan with airspace and military facilities for US military operations against the Taliban, and paved the way for renewed relations with Washington.
This decision was the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan's foreign policy, but the state's relations with the Taliban were not completely severed.
Read this report on the Afghanistan International website.