Foreign policy of pakistan

FOREIGN POLICY OF
PAKISTAN
Challenges and Prospects of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
JANUARY 18, 2018
QUNBER BILAL
Qunber.ali.bilal@gmail.com

Foreign Policy of Pakistan
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ABSTRACT
Pakistan today is facing myriad challenges in the realm of foreign policy. Pakistan has taken a
series of initiatives to make our neighborhood peaceful, to promote regional connectivity, and to
create conditions for economic development in Pakistan that benefits the people of Pakistan.
Major efforts have been made to revive dialogue with India, although a cloud of uncertainty still
hangs over the process because of Pathankot. Our firm faith in the restoration of Afghan peace
and reconciliation has been endorsed by Afghanistan, the US and China. The greatest challenge
for all of us is to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table. We want to help the international
community create a multilateral order based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter,
and anchored in the values of fair play, equity, and security for all. We are seeking an ever-
stronger relationship with China, stable ties with the United States, and better economic linkages
with Europe. We are also pursuing Vision East Asia. In the Middle East, we are walking a thin
line to ensure equilibrium and conciliation. We have counseled resort to more diplomacy to
douse the flames of war which are ruining Muslim nations in the broader Middle East region. To
reduce tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, we have taken the path of good offices and
mediation. Pakistan's priority today is well-being and prosperity of its people. And we are poised
to deliver on this promise in the years to come. In this context, the China-Pakistan Economic
Corridor is a keystone megaproject that would transform the political, strategic and economic
landscape. Pakistan is the axis around which this revolution will take place. On all these issues,
the state of Pakistan needs the guidance and inputs of Parliament, which has its ears to the
ground and its finger on the pulse of the people of Pakistan.

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PREFACE
This research paper discusses the cardinals of Pakistan’s foreign policy. Like other countries, our
country too has some basic components of its foreign policy which serve as the building block
for the constitution and our foreign relationship treaties.
We have strong relationships with our neighboring as well as distant countries in order to create
a stronger global village. This paper discusses all these relationships, their former status along
with current situation and prospects. Special attention is given to the main agenda, i.e., the
challenges and fallbacks that we are facing in the construction of our foreign policy. The global
trends are changing and there is a need to keep an eye on new global realignment in order to cop
with the pace of world. Post 9/11 events, war on terror and Oil wars have changed the global
narrative of looking at different things. The consistent issue of Afghanistan is also worth
addressing. So this paper discusses and highlights the ongoing tensions and alignments, not only
from Pakistan’s perspective but also from global point of view.
In last section, prospects of Pakistan’s foreign relations have been discussed. Different treaties
being signed and the development plans have been highlighted in this section. All what Pakistan
needs is to formulate the foreign policy in context with the global narrative and changing trends
to survive better and protect its sovereignty.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract …………………………………………… 1
Preface …………………………………………… 2
Table of Contents …………………………………………… 3
List of Abbreviations & Acronyms …………………………… 4
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION …………………………… 6
1.1 Basic Goals of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy …… 6
1.2 Foreign Relations of Pakistan …………… 9
Chapter 2 Shortfalls & Challenges to Pakistan’s Foreign Policy … 16
2.1 Current Global Realignment …………… 17
2.2 Post 9/11 Scenario …………… 17
2.3 US Cold War with Russia …………… 18
2.4 Indo-US Alliance …………………………… 20
2.5 Major Challenges to Pakistan’s Foreign Policy ..…. 21
Chapter 3 Prospects of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy …………… 26
3.1 Pak-China Prospects …………………… 26
3.2 Pak-Iran Relationship …………………… 27
3.3 Agreement on Afghan Issue …………………… 27
3.4 Pak-India Prospects …………………… 28
References …………………………………………… 29

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
1. PML(N) - Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)
2. UN - United Nations
3. SEATO - South East Asia Treaty Organization
4. CENTO - Central Treaty Organization
5. NAM - Non-Alignment Movement
6. OIC - Organization of Islamic Countries
7. ECO - Economic Cooperation Organization
8. SAARC - South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation
9. ASEAN - Association of South East Asian Nations
10. RCD - Regional Cooperation for Development
11. PRC - People's Republic of China
12. USSR - Union of Soviet Socialists Republics
13. USA - United States of America
14. MOU - Memorandum of Understanding
15. IPI - Iran-Pakistan-India
16. OBOR - One Belt One Road
17. TTP - Trans Pacific Partnership
18. TTIP - Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership
19. BRIC - Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa
20. AIIB - Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank
21. NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organization

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22. IMA - Islamic Military Alliance
23. ME - Middle East
24. SCO - Shanghai Cooperation Organization
25. CPEC - China-Pak Economic Corridor
26. TAPI - Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India

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Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Foreign Policy can be defined as:
"The doctrine that establishes relations between sovereign states. It is reflection of domestic
politics and an interaction among sovereign states. It indicates the principles and preferences on
which a country wants to establish relations with another country."
Quaid-e-Azam defined Foreign Policy of Pakistan towards other countries of the world in 1948,
as follows;
“Our Foreign Policy is one of friendliness and good-will towards all the nations of
the world. We do not cherish aggressive designs against any country or nation.
We believe in the policy of honesty and fair play in national and international
dealings and are prepared to make our utmost contribution to the promotion of
peace and prosperity among the nations of the world. Pakistan will never be found
lacking in extending its material and moral support to the oppressed and
suppressed peoples of the world and in upholding the principles of the United
Nations Charter”
1.1Basic Goals ofPakistan's ForeignPolicy
As per the election manifesto of PML(N) is concerned; “Pakistan today is at war within and
isolated abroad. Its independence and sovereignty stand compromised; its economic weaknesses

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are forcing us to go begging bowl in hand, while foreign states undertake unilateral strikes on its
territory and non-state actors use it as a sanctuary to pursue their own agendas, oblivious to
Pakistan’s national interests.” 1
Keeping this perspective in view, some of most notable cardinals of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
are as given.
1.1.1 Protection of Freedom and Sovereignty
Pakistan came into being after great sacrifices of millions of Muslims. Like any other country,
she also considers with deep regard the need for preservation of its independence and does not
allow any country to harm its freedom. Therefore, the principle of protection of independence
and sovereignty is the corner stone of Pakistan's Foreign Policy.
1.1.2 Cordial Relations with Muslim Countries
Pakistan always tries to establish cordial and friendly relations with Muslim countries. It has
always moved its concern against Israel, India and U.S.S.R capturing Palestine, Kashmir and
Afghanistan respectively. She has shouldered high responsibilities and used her influence for
safeguarding the rights of the Muslims. Pakistan is also an active member of the Islamic
Conference.
1.1.3 Non-Interference in Internal Affairs of Other Countries
Pakistan has sought to establish normal and friendly relations with all countries especially in
neighboring countries, based on universally acknowledge the principle of national sovereignty,
non-use of force, non-interference in the internal affairs of states.

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1.1.4 Implementation of U.N Charter
Pakistan's policy is to act upon UN charter and to support all moves by the UN to implement it.
Pakistan has been the member of UN since the year of its birth.
1.1.5 Promotion of World Peace
Pakistan's policy is to promote peace among nations. It has no aggressive designs against any
country. Neither does it support any such action. Pakistan has always held that the international
disputes should be settled through negotiations rather than non-battlefield.
1.1.6 Non-Alignment
Pakistan follows the policy of Non-Alignment i.e. to keep away from alignment with any big
power bloc, and avoids taking sides in the cold war. It has also given up its association with
SEATO and CENTO and was included in NAM in 1979
1.1.7 Support for Self-Determination and Condemnation of Racial Discrimination
Pakistan is a stomach supporter of the right of self-determination and has been in the fore front
of efforts to eliminate colonialism and racism. It has advocated the right of self-determination of
Kashmir.
1.1.8 Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament
Pakistan is deeply conscious of the fact that international peace and security cannot be achieved
and sustained in the world with arms. Disarmament is the imperative condition for truly durable
peace in the world. Pakistan has a vital stake in promotion of disarmament both in the nuclear
and conventional fields. It is included in the principles of its foreign policy that a collective

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endeavor by countries at the regional level to promote disarmament and enhance security at the
lowest possible level of armaments is an indispensable result to their advocacy of global
disarmament.
1.1.9 Member of International Organization
Pakistan had become the member of the British Commonwealth with the time of its
establishment. In addition, it is the member of United Nations (U.N), Non-Aligned Movement
(NAM), Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO),
South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC), Association of South East Asian
Nations (ASEAN), and D-Eight. Being a member of International Organizations, the objectives
of Pakistan are to struggle for world peace, to unify the Muslim countries and to promote
regional co-operation.
1.2 ForeignRelations of Pakistan
Pakistan is the second largest Muslim country in terms of population (behind Indonesia), and its
status as a declared nuclear power, being the only Islamic nation to have that status, plays a part
in its international role. Pakistan is also an important member of the Organization of the Islamic
Conference (OIC).
Pakistan is an active member of the United Nations. Historically, its foreign policy has
encompassed difficult relations with India, a desire for a stable Afghanistan, long-standing close
relations with China, extensive security and economic interests in the Persian Gulf and wide-
ranging bilateral relations with the United States and other Western countries.

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Wary of Soviet expansion, Pakistan had strong relations with both the United States of America
and the People's Republic of China during much of the Cold War. It was a member of the
CENTO and SEATO military alliances. Its alliance with the United States was especially close
after the Soviets invaded the neighboring country of Afghanistan. In 1964, Pakistan signed the
Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) Pact with Turkey and Iran, when all three
countries were closely allied with the U.S., and as neighbors of the Soviet Union, wary of
perceived Soviet expansionism. To this day, Pakistan has a close relationship with Turkey. RCD
became defunct after the Iranian Revolution, and a Pakistani-Turkish initiative led to the
founding of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985. Pakistan's relations with
India have improved recently and this has opened Pakistan's foreign policy to issues beyond
security. This development might completely change the complexion of Pakistan's foreign
relations.
1.2.1 China
In 1950, Pakistan was among the first countries to break relations with the Republic of China on
Taiwan and recognize the People's Republic of China. Following the Sino-Indian hostilities of
1962, Pakistan's relations with the PRC became stronger; since then, the two countries have
regularly exchanged high-level visits resulting in a variety of agreements. The PRC has provided
economic, military, and technical assistance to Pakistan. The alliance remains strong.
Favorable relations with China have been a pillar of Pakistan's foreign policy. China strongly
supported Pakistan's opposition to Soviet involvement in Afghanistan and was perceived by
Pakistan as a regional counterweight to India and the USSR. The PRC and Pakistan also share a
close military relation, with China supplying a range of modern armaments to the Pakistani

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defense forces. Lately, military cooperation has deepened with joint projects producing
armaments ranging from fighter jets to guided missile frigates. Chinese cooperation with
Pakistan has reached high economic points with substantial investment from China in Pakistani
infrastructural expansion, including the noted project in the Pakistani port in Gwadar.
1.2.2 India
Since independence, relations between Pakistan and India have been characterized by rivalry and
suspicion. Although many issues divide the two countries, the most sensitive one since
independence has been the status of Kashmir.
Relations between India and Pakistan have since been particularly strained, especially since the
October 12, 1999 Pakistani coup d'état in Islamabad. India has time and again alleged that
Pakistan provides monetary and material support to Kashmiri terrorists, a charge which Pakistan
has always denied. The last few years have been particularly cantankerous in this regard, with
India accusing Pakistan of abetting cross-border terrorism from its territory. Pakistan claims to
provide only moral support to the fighters and maintains that the conflict is indigenous in nature.
However, many of the terrorist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba and others operating in Jammu and
Kashmir have their offices in Pakistan. The terrorist Maulana Masood Azhar, released from the
Indian prison in 1999 in exchange of Indian nationals, who were on board in an Indian Airlines
Aeroplan, which was going to New Delhi from Kathmandu, Nepal. It was hijacked by four
Militants (all Pakistani nationals, though Pakistan denied this) and was taken to Kandhar in
Afghanistan. After release from the Indian prison, Maulana Masood Azhar made a public
appearance in Pakistan and formed another terrorist outfit named Jaish-e-Mohammed. Hopes of
peaceful resolution of issues through dialogue have met a stalemate many times over the issue.

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On June 20, 2004, both countries agreed to extend a nuclear testing ban and to set up a hotline
between their foreign secretaries aimed at preventing misunderstandings that might lead to a
nuclear war.
1.2.3 Russia
increased between the Soviet Union and Pakistan because of the latter's key role in helping to
organize political and material support for the Afghan rebel forces. The withdrawal of Soviet
forces from Afghanistan and the collapse of the former Soviet Union resulted in significantly
improved bilateral relations, but Pakistan's support for and recognition of the Taliban regime in
neighboring Afghanistan remained an ongoing source of tension. Later, government of Pakistan
changed its policy towards Taliban when it joined US forces in helping to overthrow them
following attacks in the US on the 11th of September 2001.
In 2007, the relations between Pakistan and the Russian Federation were reactivated after the 3-
day official visit of Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov. He is the first Russian prime
minister to visit Pakistan in the post-Soviet Union era in 38 years. He had "in-depth discussions"
with President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz. The major focus of the visit
was to improve bilateral relations with particular emphasis on ways and means to enhance
economic cooperation between the two countries. During the visit, two Memorandum of
understanding were signed, under an MOU, the Russian Federation will cooperate with Pakistan
Railways for construction of new railway tracks, supply of sleepers and signaling system, up-
gradation of a railway workshops and setting up of Metro Railways in major cities of Pakistan.
Under another MOU, the two countries will work for promoting cultural, educational and
scientific changes.

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1.2.4 Iran
Historically, Iran was the first nation to recognize Pakistan. Since then, Pakistan has had close
geopolitical and cultural-religious linkages with Iran. However, strains in the relationship
appeared in the 1990s, when Pakistan and Iran supported opposing factions in the Afghan
conflict. Also, some Pakistanis suspect Iranian support for the sectarian violence which has
plagued Pakistan. Nevertheless, Pakistan pursues an active diplomatic relationship with Iran,
including recent overtures to seek a negotiated settlement between Afghanistan's warring
factions. Pakistan also supports Iran's use of Nuclear Technology for peaceful purposes. On
January 27th, 2006, Pakistan, Iran, and India agreed to start work on IPI gas line which Pakistan
needs to shrink the gap of Demand and supply of energy in Pakistan to maintain economic
growth.
1.2.5 United Kingdom & Commonwealth
Pakistan has been a member of the Commonwealth of Nations since independence in 1947. It
was not a member of the British Commonwealth from 1972 until 1989, because of the
Commonwealth's recognition of Bangladesh. It was readmitted to full membership of the
Commonwealth in October 1989. It was suspended with the overthrow of the democratically
elected government in 1999. Its full membership has been reinstated with the backing of the
United Kingdom and Australia for Pakistan's support in the War on Terrorism. Pakistan
maintains diplomatic relations with all Commonwealth countries even though it does not have its
own High Commission in each capital.[2]

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1.2.6 United States
Although Pakistan’s ties with the United States has remained central to its foreign policy over
the past few years, particularly after the 9/11 attacks, despite being ostensible allies in the fight
against terrorism, the relationship has never been stable and predictable.
2016 saw a dip in ties between the two countries, especially after a US Congressional panel in
March blocked the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan citing its lack of progress to take action
against certain militant groups. The development compelled Prime Minister’s Adviser on
Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz to admit that relationship with the US had been on ‘downward
spiral.’
The future of ties between Pakistan and the US is uncertain with the election of Donald Trump
as the next president. While Trump brings with him an element of unpredictability, his maiden
telephone conversation with Prime Minister Sharif suggested that Pakistan could explore
possibilities of addressing some of the pressing issues with the US under his administration.
1.2.7 Afghanistan
Islamabad-based analysts view relations with Afghanistan as unlikely to improve, because, they
argue, U.S. military engagement in Afghanistan is winding down. The U.S. is less concerned
about Pakistan now, they say. On the other hand, Pakistan has been accused by the U.S. of
providing sanctuaries to Haqqani Network and the Afghan Taliban, which have been carrying
out attacks inside Afghanistan.

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On the other hand, when the Afghan talks have failed to produce any results, fingers were
pointed at the Pakistani authorities. Talks and negotiations will only succeed when there are
certain underlying principles that both sides agree to and when both sides believe in a win-win
situation where each side is willing to walk halfway or agree to a give and take. Afghan
government and the United States may be willing to agree to a give and take, the other side – the
Afghan Taliban – believe in an all-or-nothing worldview.[3]

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CHAPTER 2
SHORTFALLS & CHALLENGES TO PAKISTAN’S FOREIGN POLICY
The pace of global flux is tremendously increasing while producing unprecedented political,
economic, and security implications. At the first level, there is a need to identify what is
changing and the variables behind the flux, and at the second level, there is a necessity to
understand what risks and opportunities are likely to be generated as a result.
For instance, China’s larger One Belt One Road (OBOR) vision has raised questions about how
it compares with the American New Silk Road architecture for South and Central Asia. The
shape of present day trade and economic passages were pretty much shaped by geographical
proximity, historical linkages, and the present day political realities, and China intends to realign
them in its favor. And when one does that, it has the potential to unveil economic opportunities
and security risks that previously did not exist and were not anticipated.
Then there is the question of how the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Transatlantic
Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) agreements (if they are finalized) are likely to play out
in contrast to what BRICS is attempting to shape via institutions like the Asia
Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). These are immensely intricate institutions which are
giving advantage to one or the other player.

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2.1 Current Global Realignment
Donald's Trumps latest rhetoric against Pakistan, harboring terrorist and all in his Afghanistan
policy speech does not come out as a surprise for anyone at all and is nothing new. America is
fast losing the war in Afghanistan and it’s an open secret around the world. US government
won't ever admit it, hence the favorite scapegoat to put the blame of the shameful defeat is their
major non-NATO ally, Pakistan.[4]
2.2 Post 9/11 Scenario
USA invaded Afghanistan as a direct consequence of the 9/11 attacks. The aftermath of that
tragic incident was manipulated by those who had a warning of this calamity. Without doubt, the
strongest lobbyist in Washington, that is Israel(AIPAC) knew and carefully planned to globally
benefit from the tragic events of 9/11. The US government in post 9/11 scenario, was heavily
lobbied by the Indians with Israelis in their direct support to put India as a regional
counterweight to the inevitable rise of the 'Red Empire' in Asia. It was only natural for the USA
to go to bed with India and try putting a barrier to the rising influence of China in her home
region. India, aspires to become a regional power but can't take on China at one side and
Pakistan on the other, which are both strongly allied nuclear armed states like her.
While USA is facing defeat in Afghanistan, it is her desire to 'outsource' the region to their
puppets, with India in the driving seat of their bandwagon. There is but, few major problems
faced by the US government in implementing their policies.
Firstly, Pakistan being immediate neighbor of Afghanistan, foresaw the US defeat based on their
established old habit of abandoning the mess they create after meeting the immediate,
shortsighted goals. Looks like they never learnt anything from their Brit cousins. So, the

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Pakistanis took safety measures especially after experiencing the US betrayal first hand in the
aftermath of winning the 'Cold War'. The US created and Armed the Mujahidin in association
with Pakistan only to dump them on the later, once they thought, they were of no good use
anymore. Pakistan, didn't have that luxury, being in that region, so, kept their ties with the
Frankenstein's monster created by the USA and kept trying to tame it. It doesn’t mean that the
monster did not haunt Pakistan. Pakistan paid the price and continues to do so, through the blood
of thousands of her soldiers and civilians on daily basis. It's a price though, Pakistanis knew they
would have to pay for the choices they made. Pakistanis always knew what they were getting
into, by taking upon India on Afghan soil which is backed by the USA. The Indians, from the
Afghan soil funded the 'international ideological mercenaries a.k.a Pakistani Taliban', who are
the rogue third generation mercenaries of 'Afghan Jihad', targeting Pakistan, to give them a taste
of their own medicine they had used in Kashmir against the Indian occupation of the region. As a
result, Pakistan choose to take upon India in Afghanistan being directly supported there by the
US, in a fight for her survival. This also dictated Pakistan to strategically realign its priorities and
prepare for softly divorcing the US led western alliance and join the Sino-Russian camp.
2.3 US Cold War with Russia
The other major problem with the US policy in Afghanistan is, that the place is the very
backyard of China and Russia. USA simply cannot continue to play there and keep bullying the
entire region, without expecting retaliation from these regional powers. USA is no more the sole
superpower of the world, or possess the power it once had before 9/11. The 'Oil Wars' in the
middle east based on 'WMD lies' have weakened the American might drastically. America
acquired their sole superpower status after winning the 'Cold War', defeating the USSR in

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Afghanistan through her proxies, 'Mujahidin' now known as the 'Afghan Taliban'. That American
victory chartered by the 'Mujahidin' in Afghanistan led to the breaking of the USSR.
Only two decades later not only the same proxy, which won the USA led western capitalist
alliance their war against the USSR led communist bloc, is the US/NATO chief enemy in
Afghanistan, but, the old socialist enemy of the USA is also back to haunt the western world in
the new capitalist attire. Russian bear is all inclined to take back its lost territories and influence,
almost after four decades of suffering the humiliating defeat by the USA.
Chinese investments in Afghanistan have bought them an unprecedented influence in the
country. Russia is all on board with China in Afghanistan and both these regional powers are in
negotiations with the Taliban, due to kind the courtesy of Pakistani connections with the 'Afghan
Taliban', which the Americans are so very critical of.
Pakistani Army played its due role as a US major non-NATO ally cooperating with the US and
International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) on ground in Afghanistan. Pakistan also provided
key logistical support to the US forces/ISAF in Afghanistan. However, the Pakistani intelligence,
skillfully retained but avoided using their influence over the 'Afghan Taliban', while the US
wanted to negotiate a deal with them by bullying Pakistan to strong arm the 'Afghan Taliban' into
such a deal. Although such a deal would have given the US, some kind of 'face saving exit', from
Afghanistan, which was/is in the interest of Pakistan, but the Pakistani intelligence outfits backed
off from brokering any such deal, only after confirming that, such a US deal with the 'Afghan
Taliban' would be made by compromising the Pakistani strategic interests superseded by those of
India.

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2.4 Indo-US Alliance
The 'Indo-US' strategic regional alliance plans to counter China's rise in the region and neutralize
her influence in Afghanistan and beyond. This also directly jeopardizes the Russian influence in
the mineral rich countries of 'Central Asia' with the US eyes affixed on their natural resources.
India is hated by Pakistan due to historic reasons, with three wars under the belts of both these
countries. There is hence, a natural alignment of strategic interests between, China, Pakistan and
Russia. That is where it hurts the US most, to lose Pakistan which is geographically located in a
position to make or break both Afghanistan and whomsoever controls Kabul.
Aforesaid considering, Pakistan silently but surely, over a course of one and a half decade,
strategically re-aligned itself away from the USA keeping in view her own supreme national
interests. While Pakistan may never completely divorce the US and NATO, the core Pakistani
geopolitical and strategic interests are now aligned with those of China and Russia. Pakistan is a
nuclear armed state and the USA simply does not possess the potential to disarm the Pakistani
nuclear arsenal, no matter how much it threatens, shrieks or boasts about doing so. Pakistan
visibly, has the capacity and capability to choose its foreign policy. The financial support
accorded to Pakistan by her allies in addition to vast mineral wealth at her disposal coupled with
the Geo-strategical location in the globe only adds to the Pakistani strengths.
India will have to make a choice, as to either peacefully co-exist with her neighbors or face a
nuclear Armageddon. India won't be allowed to enforce the US centric agenda in the region it is
housed, on the behest of her newly found lover sitting safely across seven seas playing her to do
its dirty laundry. Peace is the only logical way forward for all stake holders in the Asia Pacific,
for this entire region to realize and exploit its economic potential and bring billions of mankind

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out of poverty. The US and its allies will have to sooner than later realize, that the fires they are
fuming in Asia will find its way to their homeland like before. USA will have to stop acting
audaciously around the globe as if, it is the sole superpower of the world, which it is not.
Pakistan will continue to exercise its foreign policy independently, irrespective of the US
bullying. The Pakistani global diaspora is a force beside its nuclear armed military to deter any
misadventure by either the US or India. The US puppet government in Kabul will have to come
to terms with the Pakistani position instead of playing as the Indian lackeys and support the
funding of the insurgency in tribal areas of Pakistan from the Afghan soil. For Pakistanis will
avenge and call upon its debts after the 'foreign invaders' will leave Afghanistan. In any case, the
American puppets in Kabul will run away to the western world, sooner or later after finishing
their loot of western world's aid money like Karzai and Co did so. Pakistan on the other hand is
here to stay and retain the influence in Afghanistan, in partnership with China and Russia,
hopefully bringing much awaited relief for that war-torn country in the shape of peace and
prosperity.[5]
2.5 Major Challenges to Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
Every year unfolds its own intricacies. The year 2017 seems to have ensnared Pakistan into six
main foreign policy challenges.
2.5.1 Islamic Military Alliance (IMA)
Pakistan is a victim of the illusion that by joining the 41-nation Islamic Military Alliance (IMA)
formed in the Middle East (ME) against terrorism, not only would Pakistan’s international
presence increase but Pakistan would also acquire a larger role to play in the ME. However,
Pakistan is now fast realizing the fact that it was beguiled into the alliance through its ex-army

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chief who was made the commander of the alliance the now-declared intentions of which are
having the potential for spilling over the sectarian conflict of the Arab world into Pakistan.
Unfortunately, Pakistan is overlooking the fact that its huge workforce in the ME does offer a
presence and role of a subaltern state and not a leader state. Pakistan is coming to grips with the
challenge of its true presence and role in the ME.
2.5.2 The ‘Do More’ Dilemma
Pakistan is a victim of another illusion that Pakistan is generous with the world for fighting the
war on terror and that the world be beholden to Pakistan for the same. However, at the Riyadh
Summit held in May this year, by not extending any gratitude to Pakistan for its anti-terrorism
efforts, US President Donald Trump signaled that the US considered Pakistan part of the
problem and not part of the solution. Pakistan is overlooking the fact that the war on terror was
primarily launched against al-Qaeda the founder of which was found in May 2011 hiding in a
compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. Consequently, several countries think that Pakistan is not
fighting any war on their behalf but for its own sake. Related to this point, the foreign policy
challenge is that Pakistan has been left of its own accord to confront the specter of terrorism.
Nevertheless, the attendant dilemma is that, on the one hand, Pakistan is fighting the war on
terror at home while, on the other hand, Pakistan has got readily embroiled in the Middle East
affairs where another war, along with all its repercussions, awaits Pakistan.
2.5.3 Cross Border Terrorism
In 2017, Pakistan is still faced with the challenge sprouting from the allegation of perpetrating
and perhaps perpetuating terrorism in the region. Whereas the signing of US-India nuclear
energy agreement in October 2008 brought US and India closer to each other on the cooperation

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front, the Mumbai attacks in November 2008 brought US and India closer to each other on the
anti-terrorism front. Similarly, Afghanistan’s obstinate censure of Pakistan on every bomb blast
exploded in Kabul has disparaged Pakistan. In June 2017, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani’s
demand through the Kabul Process to have an international pact with Pakistan to end “cross-
border terrorism” further undermines Pakistan’s credibility as a reliable peace-loving neighbor.
Nevertheless, it often seems that the escalation of conflict on the Pak-Afghan border has some
sort of consanguinity with the rise of clash on the Line of Control part of the Pak-India border.
2.5.4 Increasing Volatility of India and US
In 2017, Pakistan has been facing the challenge of volatility coming from two corners. The first
is India where Narendra Modi is ruling over the country whereas the second is the US where
Donald Trump is holding the reigns of the country. If the Modi face of India is pugnacious, the
Trump visage of the US is also belligerent. Pakistan is getting overly leaning on China and by
extension on Russia at the expense of its tilt towards the US despite the fact that Pakistan has
enjoyed a long-term defense relationship with the US. Pakistan is not taking seriously the
meaning of the cold shoulder the US is offering to Pakistan. Such lack of understanding offers
Pakistan a foreign policy challenge.
2.5.5 Security Threats to CPEC
In June 2017, Pakistan’s attaining the full membership status of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization (SCO) beckons another challenge. Pakistan thinks that the economic prosperity that
would be brought along with the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an extension of the
SCO, will outstep or perhaps outrun terrorism. If poverty and terrorism are assumed two distinct
issues (and which are despite all perceived correlations), the SCO or the CPEC offers a solution

24 | P a g e
for poverty and not for terrorism. Here, Pakistan is overlooking the fact that it has to eradicate
terrorism on its own even for the sake of the success of the CPEC: the eradication of terrorism is
a pre-requisite for making the CPEC successful to wipe out poverty. For bringing the scourge of
terrorism under control, military operations to retrieve South and North Waziristan are
insufficient. Instead, Pakistan has to revisit its Afghanistan policy as a foreign policy challenge,
as peace in Afghanistan is a precondition to yielding the dividends of peace on Pakistan.
Nevertheless, Pakistan’s joining (and persisting with) the IMA is an anti-thesis to reifying the
concept of brining economic prosperity to the country. Instead of preparing for enjoying peace
and prosperity through the CPEC, Pakistan is actually knocking at the door of another conflict to
bring it home.
Interestingly, Pakistan’s joining the IMA has laid bare an intra-state reality that the civil-military
dissonance festers. The first clue is that without seeking a formal permission coming through the
parliament, the army thought it permissible to send its former chief and about five thousand
serving army men to join the alliance. The elected government could not have accorded him the
permission to head the IMA by circumventing the parliament, if the government had not been
mired in the Panama leaks. Certainly, in the ongoing post-Panama leaks phase, the army has
found an ample leeway (vis-à-vis the civilian elected government) to assert itself. The second
clue is that on the DAWN leaks, the army (through the ISPR) denounced publicly through twitter
the implementation of the findings of the relevant inquiry report coming from the PM house. The
third clue is lately when the army has announced an Umrah performing offer for the members of
Pakistan’s cricket team winning the Cricket Champion’s trophy against India in England. Taken
together, all these three clues offer a sense of parallelism fashioned by the army in Pakistan.

25 | P a g e
2.5.6 Civil-Military Relations
The civil-military relations are no doubt Pakistan’s internal matter but these relations have the
potential for affecting the contours of Pakistan’s foreign policy. For instance, while joining the
IMA Pakistan was thinking that it would take upon itself the task of striking a balance between
Saudi Arabia and Iran. However, after joining the IMA, Pakistan has found itself confronted with
a new challenge: how to correct the recently surfaced Saudi-Qatar imbalance in the ME. Pakistan
finds itself helpless in plummeting acerbity between Saudi Arabia and Qatar – not to say of
reducing bitterness between Saudi Arabia and Iran. To its dismay, Pakistan has found that the
ME is impermeable to the diplomatic finesse Pakistan has been cherishing over the years: the
rancor is peculiar to the ME. Above all, abruptness and authoritarianism with which the fellow
Arab states, especially Saudi Arabia, are castigating and chastening Qatar, there are lessons for
Pakistan to learn about its own actual size and role. Though joining the IMA was more an army’s
initiative than of the civilian government, both are now feeling the heat of the blunder[6]

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Chapter 3
PROSPECTS OF PAKISTAN’S FOREIGN POLICY
Whatever the compulsions for Pakistan have been in the previous decades, the current regional
and global structures are different and very opportunistic for Pakistan. Khursheed Mahmud
Kasuri, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan writes, highlighting foreign policy issues to the
country, “The emerging new international economic environment influenced in several different
ways by the process of globalization has placed new responsibilities on the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs.” He also highlights the politico-economic relationship becoming preeminent in the 21st
century: “the term political economy now applies both to the internal and external dimensions of
politics and economics.” Another major trend that paints the continuously changing global
environment is “Regionalism”. States revise their foreign polices according to their domestic
needs and external crescendos and diminuendos. Pakistan now, more than ever needs to set
fiercely proactive goals and not just be on the receiving end of matters but broaden its foreign
policy goals and its execution.[7]
3.1 Pak-China Prospects
With the economically “Rising China” and “Resurging Russia”, the dynamics of the
international political and economic environment and most importantly the regional dynamics of
Asia are changing. With the first trade activities of CPEC kicking off in November last month,
Pakistan has set itself on a road to economic development and also to positive image-building.
The smooth completion and execution of this project is not only crucial for Pakistan’s dwindling

27 | P a g e
economy but also serves to be an abstract venus-flytrap foreign policy move without the parasitic
aspects: Pakistan cannot utilize the immediate benefits of CPEC in its entirety if it does not
attract other regional and neighboring states.
3.2 Pak-Iran Relationship
With Iran showing interest in joining CPEC, Pakistan has a massive opportunity to not only
expand the littoral potential of Gwadar but also to gain a long-term ally. The potential of the
Arabian Sea as the next major trade route increases exponentially with the Gwadar and
Chahbahar combined. Pakistan’s relational history with Iran has been on and off but Iran is a
proactive state when it comes to national interest, with a vast pool of natural resources and a
comparatively much better governance level. In International relations, there is nothing better
than a sensible neighbor and even more important is getting her on-board. Furthermore, after
lifting of sanctions from Iran and diminishing US presence in the region, Pakistan needs to step
up work on the Iran-Pakistan pipeline.
3.3 Agreement on Afghan Issue
As Russia, China and Pakistan agree on efforts to remove Afghan individuals from the UN
sanctions lists late in December recently as part of efforts to foster peaceful dialogue between
Kabul and the Taliban movement in Afghanistan, the political dynamics in the region also shows
promise. Pakistan must capitalize on what the environment and circumstances are offering to
gain another ally in the region and to facilitate the spill-over of these political collaborations into
economic ones with Russia as well. A glance at the past mistakes should caution Pakistani policy
makers to not be completely dependent on any own major power. Sensing the aromas of
‘regionalization’, it is important for Pakistan to engage on multi-lateral levels proactively and

28 | P a g e
diplomatically if she is to materialize current opportunities and nuances into substantial and
long-term development and success in the coming years. It then, also becomes important that the
nitty-gritties of CPEC be negotiated and executed in a manner which keeps Pakistan fiercely
independent in her decisions.
3.4 Pak-India Prospects
The major foreign policy challenge for Pakistan lies in her next-door Indian neighbor. The
Pakistan India rivalry is far from over and perpetual hostilities keep making it worse but both
countries have major potential trade partners in each other. India has made tremendous economic
progress and is likely to rise further. Without compromising on country’s security and stability,
Pakistan’s foreign policy pundits and military gurus need to formulate the modus operandi for
exploiting maximum out of a rising neighbor towards the country’s national interest. India
agreeing to give transit fee to Pakistan and Afghanistan just this week, finalizing the transit
agreement on Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India (TAPI) shows a great sign as to
India realizing the changing regional atmosphere and Pakistan’s worth as major a geo-political
actor in it.
Amidst a continuously changing and developing political and economic environment, Pakistan’s
Foreign Policy is met with great challenges and opportunities. This era is indeed a test of skill
and expertise for Pakistan’s foreign policy makers and demands all the sincerest energies and
resources to be employed efficiently and effectively, if Pakistan is to cease maximum benefits
from these ripening prospects.

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References:
1. “Strategic Vision of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy” by Sartaj Aziz, Advisor to Prime Minister
on Security and Foreign Affairs, June 2014
2. http://www.cssforum.com.pk/css-compulsory-subjects/pakistan-affairs/13381-foreign-
relations-pakistan.html
3. http://paktribune.com/articles/Pakistans-Foreign-Policy-and-Current-Challenges-
243328.html
4. https://www.politact.com/global-realignment/
5. https://whatholdsthefuture.blogspot.com/2017/08/strategic-realignment-of-pakistan.html
6. https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2017/06/21/pakistans-foreign-policy-challenges-in-
2017/
7. “Pakistan’s foreign policy, the rising trend of regionalism” by Fatema Mahmood, Daily
Times, Jan 16, 2017

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