Key Points:
- Pakistan’s role in Afghanistan and the resurgence of the Taliban have sparked global interest, impacting its international image and regional influence.
- The Pakistan-U.S. relationship is in a phase of reconstruction, influenced by factors like Afghanistan, counterterrorism efforts, and shifting global dynamics.
- Domestic anti-American sentiment, often fueled by political agendas, plays a role in shaping Pakistan’s international stance, with accusations of foreign involvement in local affairs.
- Pakistan’s re-engagement with the international community, including the U.S., hinges on economic stability, security, soft power, and addressing internal challenges to strengthen credibility.
- Rebuilding global ties requires Pakistan’s focus on economic stability, counter-terrorism initiatives, soft power projection, effective diplomacy, and open communication with key players.
NHS Media held a recent interview with Professor Dr. Hassan Abbas, he is a Distinguished Professor of International Relations at the Near East South Asia Strategic Studies Centre (NESA), National Defense University in Washington DC. Shedding light on Pakistan’s evolving role in the global arena. The discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities Pakistan faces as it seeks to re-engage with the world and reshape its relationships, particularly with the United States.
Dr. Abbas pointed out that Pakistan’s global position is currently under scrutiny due to its role in Afghanistan. With the return of the Taliban, the international community has been closely watching Pakistan’s involvement and its influence on the situation in Afghanistan. This has led to questions about Pakistan’s role in supporting and facilitating the Taliban, which impacts its image on the global stage.
According to Dr Hassan Pakistan’s relationship with the United States has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by periods of close alliance and moments of tension. Dr. Abbas highlighted that Pakistan-U.S. relations are in a rebuilding phase after years of flux. Factors such as Afghanistan’s situation, Pakistan’s stance on terrorism, and the changing global landscape contribute to this complex relationship. He underscored that while there have been historical ups and downs, the recent Afghan crisis strained the ties further.
Pakistan’s global standing is influenced by various factors, including its engagement with the West and its ability to counter anti-American sentiments. Dr. Abbas acknowledged that anti-Western sentiment is prevalent not just in Pakistan but also in many countries, often stemming from geopolitical issues and historical dynamics. He emphasized that Pakistan needs to shift its focus from being purely security-centric to leveraging its strengths in arts, culture, and intellectual depth.
The discussion turned to the emergence of anti-Americanism in Pakistan, which has not only been propagated by institutional Islamists but also by the recent shift in political discourse. The former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, used anti-American rhetoric, labelling his government’s ousting as a “regime change” orchestrated by foreign powers. Dr. Abbas expressed scepticism about the notion of international involvement, stating that there is no concrete evidence of such claims.
Dr. Abbas elaborated on the ways Pakistan can re-engage with the world and the United States. He stressed that Pakistan’s foreign office and diplomats are already engaged globally and are fostering relationships with various countries. However, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the economy, strengthening domestic institutions, and addressing internal issues. By investing in its own strengths and becoming economically self-reliant, Pakistan can gain more credibility and influence on the international stage.
Dr. Abbas suggested to improve its global standing and re-engage with the United States, Pakistan needs to adopt a multi-faceted approach,
- Economic Stability: Addressing economic challenges, including inflation and currency exchange rates, is essential to project stability and attract foreign investment.
- Security and Terrorism: Pakistan should continue its efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen its counter-terrorism strategy to enhance its credibility on the global stage.
- Soft Power: Leveraging Pakistan’s arts, culture, and intellectual achievements can help reshape its image and create a positive narrative that resonates with the international community.
- Diplomacy and Communication: Engaging in open and constructive dialogue with key stakeholders, including the United States, can help bridge misunderstandings and build trust.
According to Dr Hassan Pakistan’s current global position and the challenges it faces in re-engaging with the world. There is a strong need for Pakistan to focus on economic stability, address internal security issues, and leverage its strengths to rebuild relationships and enhance its influence on the international stage. As Pakistan navigates its way forward, a balanced approach that integrates domestic progress with international engagement is crucial for its long-term success.
