CSS Pakistan Affairs | Foreign Policy Options for Pakistan in Cold War 2:0
The following question of CSS Current Affairs is solved by Rafia Razzaq under the supervision of Howfiv’s Pakistan Affairs and Current Affairs Coaches. She learnt how to attempt 20 marks question and essay writing from Sir Syed Kazim Ali, Pakistan’s best CSS and PMS English essay and precis teacher with the highest success rate of his students. This solved past paper question is attempted on the pattern taught by Sir to his students, scoring the highest marks in compulsory and optional subjects for years, and uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, how to write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Outline
1- Introduction
2- A Cursory Glance at the Foreign Policy of Pakistan
- Case in point: Theoretical perspective of Neo imperialism
3- Policy Options to be adopted by Pakistan to gain maximum national interest without compromising it’s image in the global cold war 2.0 scenario
- ✓ By Introducing a foreign policy that is Neutral
- ✓ By introducing the element of Soft power in foreign policy
- ✓ Instigating Initiatives designed to support Peace-building efforts
- ✓ Prioritizing Minimum Intervention of Military in country’s matters
- ✓ By supporting efforts to combat terrorism
- ✓ By advocating for Cultural Diplomacy as part of it’s policy
- ✓ By Promoting positive image through media
- ✓ By Eradicating regional differences
4- Critical Analysis
5- Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Pakistan’s foreign policy, since its independence, has been heavily influenced by external and regional conflicts, hegemonic powers involvement, and quivering authoritative rule. Today, Pakistan is at the phase where there is a dire need to change its foreign policy from Geopolitical to Geoeconomic, and fortunately, Pakistan is seeking it through several initiatives that will be applauded lately. Moreover, in the Cold War scenario 2.0, where there is a beef between China and the U.S. about the ultimate hegemonic power, Pakistan must adopt a neutral foreign policy that might prove essential for major national interest. Furthermore, the appeasing need to introduce Pakistan as a soft power helping in peace-making efforts, countering terrorism, cultural diplomacy and the non-interference of any hard power like the military is a great way to maximize its national interest and create a positive image on a global level. Undoubtedly, for Pakistan, like any other country, maximum national interest should be the main priority, for it is the only way to solve issues Pakistan is going through. As Carol Mosley stated, “There is no permanent enemy, the only thing that is permanent is National Interest” and for that Pakistan must focus on implementing strategies to garner maximum national interest.
A cursory Glance at the foreign policy of Pakistan
Foreign policy refers to the strategies a country adopts while dealing with other countries and states. It encompasses a wide range of agendas like defence, Trade, diplomatic relations, international agreements, national interest, economic interest, cultural diplomacy, climate change, humanitarian issues, and an act of non-interference. It helps a state take selective measures and make appropriate decisions while seeking other states. JOSEPH FRANKEL defines foreign policy as “It consists of decisions and actions which involve to some appreciable extent relations between state and others.” It can also boost economic growth by leveraging soft power and strengthening international partnerships for long-term stability and prosperity.
Pakistan’s foreign policy is heavily influenced by the interceding of western hegemonic powers and regional and internal conflicts. Since its independence, Pakistan has been considered a puppet of superpowers who make it do anything that will benefit just them, and in return, Pakistan suffers. Moreover, Pakistan’s shaky governance and administration without lack of accountability and buried deep in corruption has made Pakistan dependent on Western loans and debts. From changing the rules of government, promoting secularism and Islamization, to joining Western defence packs and realigning with the U.S. in dealing with terrorism after 9/11, all this has shaped Pakistan’s foreign policy and transformed it into a hard power. Furthermore, Pakistan’s foreign policy reflects elements of Neo-imperialism as the country often faces external pressures from more powerful nations and international institutions. For instance, Pakistan’s economic reliance on foreign aid, loans from the IMF and World Bank, and trade relationships with major powers like the U.S. and China creates a form of dependency. These external entities influence Pakistan’s domestic and foreign policies, particularly in areas such as security, economic reforms, and regional alignments. Additionally, This economic and political leverage sometimes limits Pakistan’s autonomy, as it must cater to the interests of these influential powers to secure financial assistance or favourable trade conditions, reflecting the dynamics of Neo-imperialism in modern global relations.
Policies to be adopted by Pakistan to seek maximum national interest without compromising its image in the global Cold War 2.0 scenario
- By Introducing a foreign policy that is Neutral
Pakistan should adopt the notion of neutral foreign policy and just focus on it’s own national and economic interests. Fortunately, Pakistan is shifting it’s interest to Geo economic from Geo political, which might help her portray herself as an autonomous nation. Furthermore, Pakistan should adopt a pragmatic, neutral policy model like Singapore and Austria, which helps a country maintain a neutral stance on certain global and diplomatic issues while practising a flexible approach in dealing with other countries. Moreover, Pakistan is standing on a thin stick where one bad move can cost Pakistan a lot. Sadly, It might be difficult, but Pakistan does not want to choose sides between the U.S. and China as the Cold War Scenario 2.0 has already been predicted. Pakistan is already suffering from economic instability, and continuously increasing debt led Pakistan to approach commercial banks of the country for loans. Hence, Pakistan, for sure, needs a comprehensive, neutral policy model to harness greater national interests while working on a strong defence system for its security.
- By introducing the element of Soft power in foreign policy
Soft power in foreign policy is a crucial element that reflects and attracts FDI. Pakistan has leveraged soft power in its foreign policy on many occasions, but the main focus of Pakistan’ Foreign policy has always been pro-Chinese, pro-U.S. and pro-Western. with a strong focus on security to safeguard its independence, identity, and territorial integrity. The country maintains efforts to build ties with other Muslim states and complies with international norms. However, regional dynamics and its Geostrategic location present security challenges that dominate its foreign policy. Despite these challenges, Pakistan continues to implement soft power initiatives in its foreign policy. For sure, Pakistan has taken several initiatives to promote soft power in its foreign policy, such as Pakistan’s ex-army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s Bajwa doctrine promoting soft power in foreign policy, aiming to make Pakistan a regional Middle power, and shifting focus from Geo politics to Geo Economics. Furthermore, According to Chitty, “soft power has become a popular currency for many foreign ministries, universities and think tanks across the world.” The concept of soft power is evolving and holds crucial importance in the world of power transition and power diffusion as the idea is seen as a cost-effective and efficient means to achieve national interests labelled by Zakaria as “the rise of the rest.”
- Instigating Initiatives designed to support Peace-building efforts
Pakistan is a key contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, ranking sixth among 120 countries. Recognized for promoting peace, sovereignty, and good neighbourly behaviour, Pakistan has been active in UN peacekeeping since its founding and played a notable role in the Suez Canal crisis of 1956. Despite these efforts, however, Pakistan remained out of UN policy discussions on peacemaking in 2004. Pakistan has been acknowledged tons of times on international platforms for its peacemaking missions. Pakistan’s army remains a key contributor in helping and resolving conflicts. Furthermore, Pakistan has served in 46 United Nations peacekeeping missions in 29 countries around the world. As of 2023, United Nations (UN) statistics show that 168 Pakistani UN peacekeepers have been killed since 1948. Pakistan can also act as a mediator between the U.S. and China, for they are both important to Pakistan in every aspect. Additionally, as the Cold War scenario 2.0 is anticipated with more advanced terrors, such as AI, Cyberwarfare, and technological threats, Pakistan needs to keep a neutral stance and focus on its national interest. For sure, Pakistan can seek maximum national interest if it keeps promoting peace and attracting people’s interest, particularly as a peaceful nation.
- Prioritizing Minimum Intervention of Military in country’s matters
Pakistan, since its independence, has faced challenges and issues targeting its national interests, security, diplomacy, and strategic interests. So Pakistan had no other option but to introduce hard power in its foreign policy not only on the national or regional forums but on the international sphere too. Pakistan should Practice Military Neutrality with a Strategic Defense Model in its foreign policy and maintain a neutral stance on international affairs while also keeping a distance from the legislature and judiciary of Pakistan. Moreover, it should adopt a method of not taking part in any international conflict, like anticipated Cold War scenario 2.0, but simultaneously invest in a strong and self-sufficient defence system to safeguard its sovereignty and deter potential threats.
- By supporting efforts to combat terrorism
Pakistan, since the collapse of the Soviet Union and 9/11, has been under severe scrutiny by terrorists, and it has deeply invested in every affair of Pakistan while continuously targeting Pakistan’s national interest, image, and security. Pakistan has taken several initiatives to counter it but as there is a saying, “An ill wound is cured, but not an ill name.” The same is the case with Pakistan. Despite taking part in several FATF and United Nations (UN) Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, Pakistan remains unable to eradicate terrorism. Recently, Pakistan launched the Azm e Istehkam operation amidst several terrorist attacks. Pakistan must try its best to eradicate terrorism if it wants to gain maximum national interest and push the country towards economic stability and prosperity.
- By advocating for Cultural Diplomacy as part of its policy
Pakistan is rich in diverse and distinct cultures, and it has to just use it strategically in its pace to gain maximum national interest. Pakistan, as a Muslim nation, shares culture, heritage, and traditions with 57 countries of the world and Pakistan is surrounded by India, Iran, and Afghanistan, sharing similar interests. Furthermore, this fosters mutual respect and helps bridge cultural divides, breaking stereotypes and misconceptions that the world has about Pakistan or countries of Asia. Pakistan can promote it’s culture through several figures that are loved around the globe. For instance, Maliha Lodhi used this as a strategic move and celebrated Eid at the UN while holding a concert with a Pakistani singer. This gained vast recognition for her and helped her earn 151 out of 193 votes at the UN. Cultural diplomacy, however, is seen as an effective and efficient way to gain maximum national interest through tourism. South Korea has leveraged maximum national interest through this technique as they hold major concerts through their worldwide global stars and make them tourism ambassadors, which gains foreign attraction immediately. Pakistan can apply such strategies to help attract tourism through its diverse resources, such as archaeological sites, traditional food, and folk music.
- By promoting a positive image through the media
Pakistan can gain maximum interest if a more positive side is demonstrated by Pakistan itself or international media. The lobby system of some countries is quite great, and it is also because of their good relations with other countries and the portrayal of their positive image through media. Moreover, media plays an important role in changing the trajectory of the country which later benefits the national interest of the country. Recently, many international companies have invested in Pakistan, such as Saudi Arabia’s Oil giant Aramco, which launched the first branded gas station in Pakistan, and Google launched an initiative to manufacture 500,000 Chromebooks in Pakistan. Hence, it can be seen how a positive image can influence FDI, benefiting the country’s national interest.
- By eradicating regional differences
Pakistan should work more to eradicate regional differences and build a strong relationship with its neighbours while practising the policy of indifference and neutral stance. As quoted by Maliha Lodhi, “When there is a question of national interest, the foreign policy takes the back seat. “ This, however, states when a country’s core interests, such as its security, economic well-being, or sovereignty are at stake, decisions should prioritize those interests over diplomatic or foreign relations strategies. Pakistan must adopt policies that are in favour of its national interest, and it will automatically create an autonomous foreign policy for Pakistan for that, Pakistan must improve its relations with its neighbours first, and for the interest of the country, just let it go for once.
Critical Analysis
Pakistan, for once, needs to adopt and implement policies and strategies that might benefit it economically, politically, and socially rather than pleasing hegemonic powers. The western powers practice the notion Neo imperialism and exploit developing countries for their own national and strategic interests and the already struggling countries fall prey to their manipulative tricks. Moreover, Pakistan must have to consider it’s own interest now and maintain a check and balance concept in it’s administration while completely neglecting the major threat of Cold War scenario 2.0 surrounding it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, several strategies and policies, such as the act of neutrality, soft power, peace building efforts, counter-terrorism initiatives, non-military interference, and eradicating regional differences while also promoting a positive image through social media, can be adopted by Pakistan during the cold war scenario 2.0 to gain maximum national interest without compromising it’s image. Subsequently, Pakistan’s foreign policy must hold a balance between strategic pragmatism and principled diplomacy by promoting neutrality, diversifying strategies, and focusing on internal stability, which can further safeguard its national interest while enhancing its global standing.
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