New Era in Pakistan’s Foreign Policy: Problems and Prospects

Fauzia Darabu, Prof Dr Sayeda Daud

doi:10.52337/pjia.v4i1.38

Abstract

Pakistan has a long history of economic and political instability despite being an ally of the west. All national and external decisions were dependent on the interests of these powers. Pakistan never had the opportunity to establish either a strong democratic government or to pursue any independent, foreign relations since 1947specially during Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, in December, 1979. Despite of sacrificing lives of many of her citizens during the War on Terror after 9/11, instead of appreciation form the West especially the US, Pakistan was labeled as a terrorist and an extremist Muslim Country. Kept isolated from the International Community, Pakistan was left no choice but to look for a more regional ally with common interests. Joining hands with China, the most trusted friend and an economic giant, seemed the only option. In this way, Pakistan hoped to play a better international role by having relations with all players in the region. To find out the root causes of these problems, a Qualitative Research Method was applied for a descriptive, in-depth critical analysis by, reliable and authentic primary and secondary sources. This research has made an attempt to clarify the risks and the stance of US as a stake holder; China-Pakistan relations, especially in the context of CPEC. The research has tried to highlight the importance of a state’s self-reliance and freedom to have an independent foreign policy of a developing country like Pakistan.

Highlights

The foreign policy of a country is the device with which countries safeguard their interests in the region where they are located, and it helps a country to promote its soft image in the world
2) To determine that there is a need to reshape the foreign policy of Pakistan in order to strengthen its economic and political stability
Research Questions Q1) Why the US considers Pakistan –China friendship as a deviation in her foreign policy? Q2) Can Pakistan affords to show an inclination towards so called Chinese bloc? What implications Pakistan may face during the course of the completion of CPEC?

Summary

Introduction

The foreign policy of a country is the device with which countries safeguard their interests in the region where they are located, and it helps a country to promote its soft image in the world It is the dilemma of the Third World Countries that they fail to understand the game play of the strong nations. Pakistan is the example of one such country that has faced great economic and political instability due to the influence of strong states. She is defending herself on various fronts at a time to put the country’s economy going smoothly. The dilemma to have an exit from the “Grey List” of Financial Action Task Force is a great challenge for her. (Alden & Aran, 2016)

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Discussion

Conclusion