A seminar in Islamabad underscored the necessity for Pakistan to adopt a cautious and balanced approach in response to rapidly evolving global and regional dynamics, characterized by shifting power equations and realignment of international alliances.
Seminar on Global and Regional Challenges
The interactive roundtable seminar, titled "Evolving Global & Regional Scenario and Challenges for Pakistan," was organized by the Forum for Information Group of Secretaries (FIGS). It brought together policy experts, politicians, former civil servants, and diplomats to discuss emerging geopolitical trends, regional security concerns, and their implications for Pakistan.
Former NSA Highlights Multipolar Shift
Former National Security Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Nasir Khan Janjua stated that the recent US-Iran conflict reflects an ongoing shift in the international system, transitioning from unipolarity towards multipolarity. He noted that the changing balance of power among major states is reshaping global politics, presenting both opportunities and challenges for Pakistan. Referring to Pakistan's strategic location, Janjua said the country is well-placed to benefit from the emerging geopolitical environment. He added that Pakistan and Iran could together play a pivotal role in promoting regional stability and economic cooperation.
Balanced Relations with Major Powers
Janjua stressed that Pakistan should pursue its relations with emerging powers, particularly China and Russia, with balance and foresight while avoiding entanglement in major power rivalries. He also highlighted the importance of peace and stability in Afghanistan, describing them as essential to Pakistan's security interests. Calling for greater economic self-reliance, Janjua said Pakistan needs to undertake sustainable economic reforms to emerge from the debt trap and strengthen its strategic autonomy.
Challenges Identified by Former Senator
Former Senator Farhatullah Babar said recent regional developments carry important lessons for all countries in the region and underscore the need for policies grounded in long-term national interests rather than short-term considerations. He identified three major challenges facing Pakistan: the rivalry between the United States and Iran, the situation in Afghanistan, and attempts by the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use water as a strategic weapon. Such developments, he warned, could set a troubling precedent in regional politics. Babar stressed that dealing with these challenges requires coherence in policymaking, close civil-military coordination, and a unified national approach to protecting Pakistan's strategic and economic interests.
Economic and Geopolitical Interplay
Dr Ashfaque Hasan Khan, Director General of the Institute of Policy Studies at the National University of Sciences and Technology, said economics and politics have become increasingly intertwined, with geopolitical considerations exerting significant influence on economic decision-making worldwide. Describing energy as the lifeblood of modern economies, he said disruptions in energy supplies have direct consequences for inflation and overall stability. Recent US-Iran tensions generated uncertainty in international markets and heightened inflationary pressures across the globe. Countries dependent on imported energy, including Pakistan, are particularly vulnerable to such shocks, he added.
Strategic Importance of Strait of Hormuz
Dr Khan also drew attention to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, saying it has effectively become a geopolitical pressure point because of its central role in global energy transportation. He expressed optimism that Iran is gradually returning to normalcy and could emerge economically stronger if regional stability is maintained. He said the recent Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran has helped ease tensions, provided Iran with much-needed breathing space, and enhanced Pakistan's standing by highlighting its constructive role in promoting regional stability.
