Discuss and Debate the Strength of Diplomatic Stance of Pakistan Regarding “War On Terror”. How It Can Be Improvised In Present Geo-Political Scenario?

2009 Solved Pakistan Affairs Past Papers | Pakistan’s Stance Regarding War on Terror

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Question Breakdown

In this question, the examiner has asked you to evaluate Pakistan’s diplomatic position on the “War on Terror” and suggest improvements according to the current geo-political scenario. To solve this, first write the then situation after 9/11 when Pakistan became a frontline ally. Then discuss Pakistan’s key diplomatic steps, support for global counter-terrorism, and internal challenges. After that, debate the strengths and criticisms of its stance. Finally, suggest how Pakistan can improve its diplomatic approach today through balanced foreign policy, regional cooperation, and image-building strategies. Keep the flow logical and evidence-based.

Outline

1- Introduction

2- Historical Context of Post-9/11 Shifts and Pakistan as a Frontline State

3- Evaluation of the Strength of Diplomatic Stance of Pakistan Regarding “War On Terror”.

• ✓ Strategic Alliance with the U.S. and Role as a Frontline State
  • President Pervez Musharraf in his memoir “In the Line of Fire” (2006) emphasized Pakistan’s immediate support to the U.S. as a necessity for national interest and global recognition.
•  ✓ Intelligence Sharing and Counter-Terror Cooperation
  •  The Congressional Research Service (CRS) report (2020) highlighted Pakistan’s assistance in capturing key Al-Qaeda operatives through intelligence collaboration.
• ✓ Internal Security Challenges and Perception of Double Game
  • The U.S. Department of Defense in its 2012 report noted that elements within Pakistan were allegedly providing safe havens to militant groups, creating mistrust.
• ✓ Pakistan’s Role in Afghanistan Peace Process and Regional Mediation
  • The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) acknowledged Pakistan’s facilitation in the intra-Afghan dialogue (2019–2021) as a constructive regional role.

4- Criticism and Erosion of Pakistan’s Global Image Due to Policy Ambiguity

• ✓ Christine Fair in her book “Fighting to the End: The Pakistan Army’s Way of War” critiques the military’s dual role in fighting and tolerating militant proxies.

5- Suggestions Improvising Diplomatic Strategy in Light of Current Geopolitical Shifts

6- Conclusion

Answer to the Question

Introduction

The dawn of the 21st century ushered in a dramatic reconfiguration of global security dynamics, particularly following the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. These events marked the beginning of a protracted global “War on Terror,” spearheaded by the United States and its allies. Pakistan, due to its geostrategic location bordering Afghanistan, became an indispensable partner in this campaign. Declared a “frontline state” by the U.S., Pakistan’s alignment with the global counter-terrorism coalition fundamentally reshaped its diplomatic, security, and economic trajectory. The nation’s decision to support the U.S.-led intervention in Afghanistan was predicated on both pragmatic security considerations and a desire for enhanced international legitimacy. However, Pakistan’s role has remained a subject of both strategic appreciation and profound criticism. While its cooperation was pivotal in capturing high-value targets and facilitating NATO operations, allegations of duplicity, internal security setbacks, and strained regional relations have undermined its global credibility.

 Historical Context of Post-9/11 Shifts and Pakistan as a Frontline State

The aftermath of the 9/11 attacks marked a seismic shift in international security priorities, with counter-terrorism ascending as the central agenda of global diplomacy. For the United States, dismantling Al-Qaeda and neutralizing the Taliban regime in Afghanistan became immediate objectives. As the only Muslim-majority country with direct access to Afghanistan and significant intelligence capabilities, Pakistan emerged as a critical strategic partner. Under mounting diplomatic and military pressure, then-President General Pervez Musharraf opted to join the U.S.-led coalition, a decision justified as imperative for safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and avoiding international isolation.

Musharraf’s government undertook a series of rapid measures: severing ties with the Taliban, offering air and logistical support to NATO forces, and launching domestic operations against extremist elements. In exchange, Pakistan received considerable economic incentives, including debt relief, military aid, and the reinstatement of its status as a major non-NATO ally. Nevertheless, this strategic realignment carried substantial internal costs. The influx of Afghan refugees, resurgence of militancy within Pakistan’s tribal belt, and the destabilization of civil-military relations created an environment of perpetual volatility. Despite these complications, Pakistan’s initial commitment positioned it as an indispensable, albeit controversial, ally in the global War on Terror.

Evaluation of the Strength of Diplomatic Stance of Pakistan Regarding “War On Terror”.

• Strategic Alliance with the U.S. and Role as a Frontline State

One of the most consequential decisions in Pakistan’s post-Cold War foreign policy was its alignment with the U.S. after 9/11. This move significantly enhanced Pakistan’s strategic visibility and re-established its position as a key factor in international diplomacy. President Pervez Musharraf, in his memoir “In the Line of Fire” (2006), defended the alliance as a calculated necessity, arguing that non-cooperation could have led to grave military and diplomatic repercussions for Pakistan. This alignment yielded immediate dividends. Pakistan received over $20 billion in military and economic assistance over the next decade. It also gained access to advanced weaponry, training programs, and international forums for strategic dialogue. Moreover, the partnership temporarily eased tensions with India by redirecting international focus toward counter-terrorism rather than regional rivalries. Nonetheless, the relationship remained transactional, often punctuated by mutual mistrust and conflicting strategic interests, particularly regarding the endgame in Afghanistan. Yet, despite these complications, Pakistan’s strategic utility ensured that it remained a constant fixture in Washington’s counter-terror calculations.

• Intelligence Sharing and Counter-Terror Cooperation

Another dimension of Pakistan’s diplomatic strength was its robust intelligence cooperation with the United States and other Western powers. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) played a pivotal role in dismantling Al-Qaeda’s operational infrastructure in South Asia. According to a 2020 Congressional Research Service (CRS) report, Pakistani intelligence was instrumental in the capture of high-profile militants such as Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of 9/11, and Abu Zubaydah. These successes significantly enhanced Pakistan’s credibility in global counter-terrorism efforts, offering proof of its operational commitment to dismantling terrorist networks. Furthermore, such cooperation facilitated bilateral and multilateral engagements in defense, intelligence, and law enforcement domains. Nonetheless, the asymmetry of trust persisted. While Pakistan delivered on numerous tactical fronts, Western skepticism about its strategic sincerity, especially concerning the Taliban and the Haqqani Network, continued to cast shadows on its diplomatic engagements. Despite these concerns, Pakistan’s intelligence collaboration remained a core pillar of its diplomatic leverage throughout the War on Terror era.

• Internal Security Challenges and Perception of Double Game

A key vulnerability in Pakistan’s diplomatic stance has been the persistent accusation of policy ambivalence—publicly supporting counter-terrorism while allegedly tolerating or even sponsoring certain militant proxies. This perception gained currency after the 2011 killing of Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, which raised serious questions about the extent of Pakistan’s complicity or negligence. According to a 2012 report by the U.S. Department of Defense, elements within Pakistan’s security establishment were suspected of maintaining “selective engagement” with militant groups, undermining broader counter-terror efforts. This duality severely damaged Pakistan’s global image, leading to the suspension of military aid, diplomatic rebukes, and rising suspicion among allies. Internally, Pakistan paid a heavy price for this perceived ambiguity. The rise of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and a surge in terrorist attacks on civilian and military targets eroded national security and public trust. More than 70,000 Pakistanis lost their lives in terrorism-related incidents from 2001 to 2020. The domestic fallout underscored the unsustainability of ambiguous policies and emphasized the urgent need for coherence between diplomatic declarations and strategic behavior.

• Pakistan’s Role in Afghanistan Peace Process and Regional Mediation

Despite enduring criticism, Pakistan’s diplomatic credentials received a boost during the Afghanistan peace process between 2019 and 2021. Islamabad played a critical role in facilitating dialogue between the Taliban and the U.S., culminating in the Doha Agreement signed in February 2020. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) acknowledged Pakistan’s contribution to the intra-Afghan dialogue, particularly its influence in persuading the Taliban to negotiate. This role re-established Pakistan as a regional stabilizer rather than merely a conflict stakeholder. Moreover, it opened avenues for improved relations with Russia, China, and even segments of the Afghan political spectrum. Nonetheless, the hasty U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 have once again complicated Pakistan’s diplomatic landscape. The resultant refugee crisis, cross-border militancy, and growing tensions with the Taliban regime threaten to unravel the diplomatic capital Pakistan accrued during the peace talks. Nevertheless, its proactive engagement in regional diplomacy remains a significant strength that, if strategically managed, can be leveraged for long-term geopolitical gains.

Criticism and Erosion of Pakistan’s Global Image Due to Policy Ambiguity

One of the most persistent challenges in Pakistan’s diplomatic journey during the War on Terror has been the erosion of its global image. Critics argue that the nation’s approach has been marred by inconsistencies, often oscillating between cooperation and confrontation. Christine Fair, in her seminal work “Fighting to the End: The Pakistan Army’s Way of War,” posits that the military’s reliance on militant proxies as instruments of strategic depth has perpetuated instability and invited international isolation. This policy ambiguity has had far-reaching consequences. It has hindered Pakistan’s integration into global economic systems, strained ties with neighboring countries like India and Iran, and limited its diplomatic maneuverability in multilateral institutions. Additionally, the labeling of Pakistan as a “terror-exporting” state in various Western policy circles has deterred foreign investment and constrained economic growth. In sum, while Pakistan’s contributions to counter-terrorism are undeniable, the lack of a coherent and transparent policy framework has considerably undermined its diplomatic effectiveness.

Suggestions Improvising Diplomatic Strategy in Light of Current Geopolitical Shifts

In the contemporary geopolitical milieu, where the nature of security threats and international alignments is rapidly evolving, Pakistan must recalibrate its diplomatic strategy to regain credibility and secure its national interests. The emergence of new power centers such as China, a recalibrated U.S. foreign policy, and shifting regional alliances necessitate a multidimensional and proactive approach. To this end, Pakistan’s diplomatic reconstruction must rest on four foundational pillars: balanced foreign policy, enhanced regional cooperation, institutionalized counter-terrorism, and strategic image-building through soft power.

1. First, Pakistan must adopt a more balanced and non-aligned foreign policy posture. Overdependence on any one global actor has historically limited Pakistan’s diplomatic flexibility. Instead, a diversified approach that builds strategic linkages with Central Asian republics, Turkey, Southeast Asia, and even Africa could create new economic and security opportunities. In this context, Pakistan’s active participation in forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) can be instrumental in diversifying its strategic engagements.
2. Second, enhancing regional cooperation is vital. Stable and constructive relations with neighboring countries—particularly Afghanistan, Iran, and India are essential for both security and economic progress. While tensions with India are unlikely to dissolve quickly, confidence-building measures, back-channel diplomacy, and trade normalization can help de-escalate hostilities. In the case of Afghanistan, Pakistan must continue its efforts to push for inclusive governance and counter cross-border militant infiltration, thereby fostering a shared regional security architecture. Improved relations with Iran, especially in the context of border security and energy cooperation, would also contribute to Pakistan’s regional stability and reduce reliance on distant allies.
3. Third, Pakistan needs to institutionalize and depoliticize its counter-terror mechanisms. The National Action Plan (NAP), introduced after the 2014 Army Public School attack in Peshawar, offers a comprehensive framework for tackling terrorism. However, its implementation has been uneven. Strengthening civilian law enforcement, judicial reforms, and ensuring that military and intelligence institutions operate under democratic oversight will not only improve internal security but also send a strong signal of transparency to the international community. A credible and consistent internal counter-terrorism framework will enhance Pakistan’s standing as a responsible and cooperative state.
4. Finally, strategic image-building through soft power diplomacy is indispensable. Pakistan must invest in cultural diplomacy, educational exchanges, and humanitarian engagement to counter negative stereotypes and promote a more nuanced narrative. Initiatives such as promoting tourism, leveraging its diaspora, and actively participating in UN peacekeeping missions can reinforce Pakistan’s image as a peace-promoting nation. Furthermore, improved media engagement and strategic communication can help Pakistan contest misinformation and present its counter-terrorism successes more effectively on global platforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement in the War on Terror has been marked by both strategic accomplishments and persistent challenges. As a frontline state, Pakistan demonstrated tactical alignment with global powers and contributed significantly to counter-terrorism operations, particularly through intelligence cooperation and regional mediation efforts. Nonetheless, its credibility suffered due to internal inconsistencies, policy ambiguities, and conflicting strategic imperatives. Moving forward, Pakistan must undertake a strategic reassessment of its foreign policy doctrine in light of emerging global realities. A balanced diplomatic posture, improved regional cooperation, transparent counter-terrorism frameworks, and a robust image-building campaign are essential components for revitalizing Pakistan’s international standing. By institutionalizing these reforms, Pakistan can transition from a reactive to a proactive global actor—one that contributes constructively to regional peace and global security while safeguarding its own national interests with credibility, coherence, and confidence. The challenges are formidable, but so too are the opportunities for a reimagined and resilient Pakistan in the post-War on Terror world order.

CSS 2009 Solved Pakistan Affairs

2-	Keeping in View the Diverse Muslim Reformist Movements of the Sub-continent, Delineate the Sequential Unity in Formulation of Ideology of Pakistan.
3-	What Specific Steps were Initiated by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan which later-on became the Agenda Points of the Movement for Pakistan? How did these Steps Orient the Political System in Pakistan?
4-	Illustrate the Role of Quaid-I-Azam For Protecting the Constitutional Rights of Muslims Of The Sub-Continent from 1916 to 1933
5-	Referring to the Evolution of Political System, Identify the Commonalities among Martial Law Administrators Of Pakistan.
6-	Discuss and Debate the Strength of Diplomatic Stance of Pakistan Regarding “War On Terror”. How It Can Be Improvised In Present Geo-Political Scenario?
7-	Compare and Contrast the Dynamics of Recent Civil Society Movement, with Other Movements in the History of Pakistan. What Impact It Would Print on the Future of Pakistan?
8-	Inspite of Strong Research-Base, Rich Lands, Reasonable Water-Resources and Various Land-Reforms, Why Agriculture Sector Remained Less-Developed in Pakistan?

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