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Understanding US Security Role in Indo-Pacific

By
Muhammad Abubaker
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3

The International security landscape is undergoing significant changes and appears to be in a period of transition towards a new global order. This transition is marked by growing strategic competition among the US, China, & Russia, as indicated by the US National Security Strategy’s (NSS-22) designation of China as a strategic competitor and Russia as an immediate threat. The US side perceives China as a potential threat to its hegemony and sphere of influence due to its rapid economic growth. To restrict China, the US side is working to restore its security leadership role in the Indo-Pacific by strengthening its alliances with the ocean-going maritime democracies, building new partnerships with Pacific island nations, and reinvigorating the Quad.

The US has increased its footprints in the Indo-Pacific in recognition of the fact that it is the most dynamic region in the world.

The US has increased its footprints in the Indo-Pacific in recognition of the fact that it is the most dynamic region in the world. It is regarded as an economic powerhouse with the potential to affect the future of people residing in different parts of the world over the next century. The US has a vision for the Indo-Pacific region. It wants to see it as a free, open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient area. To achieve that goal requires forging connections between the Indo-Pacific in the East and Euro-Atlantic in the West in order to leverage European interests in the region. This is part of the motivation for the new Australia, UK, and US partnership (AUKUS) to make this vision a reality. Moreover, the US Indo-Pacific strategy is clearly aimed at countering China’s economic growth & calls for investments in democratic institutions & civil society, promoting free trade and maintaining peace & stability across the Taiwan Strait. Apart from that, it also emphasizes aligning with like-minded partners to compete effectively with China and other countries that favor authoritarian systems over democratic systems.

The Bush administration in the mid-2000s launched a significant shift in US military, economic, and diplomatic strategy towards Asia with the goal of managing, rather than containing, China’s rise. This was achieved through a combination of internal and external balancing measures, aimed at expanding the collective power of the US and its allies and partners to discourage China from pursuing hegemony. The Obama administration continued this initiative under the ‘Pivot to Asia’ strategy, which has guided the US policy in the region. The Trump administration further emphasized the importance of Asia in the US foreign policy by introducing the ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ concept, which sought to strengthen ties with India as a counterbalance to China.

The Biden Administration has ushered in a new era of strategic partnership and commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, as evidenced by key initiatives such as the revival of Quad, AUKUS, and Pacific Partnership strategy. These efforts aim to establish a security partnership to counter the perceived Chinese threat, secure an open and free Indo-Pacific, and deter coercion. Additionally, the administration has prioritized engagement with the ASEAN bloc to expand its sphere of influence, and has introduced the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) as part of a broader strategy to maintain a balance of power against China. Analysts have noted that while this strategy is logical and compelling, effectively implementing it will prove to be a formidable challenge. This approach builds on the recognition of the importance of Asia, a focus that previous administration has also placed on strengthening alliances and working collectively to bring greater security and prosperity in the region.

The Quad is seen as a direct challenge to China and its assertiveness in the region, with the goal of managing China’s rise and fostering friendly relations with ASEAN countries.

Recent developments in the Indo-Pacific region indicate that the US, under the Biden administration, is taking steps to counteract China’s growing influence. One key aspect of this strategy is the revival of Quad, an informal security alliance comprising democratic nations such as Japan, Australia, India, and the US. The Quad is seen as a direct challenge to China and its assertiveness in the region, with the goal of managing China’s rise and fostering friendly relations with ASEAN countries. The Quad is also aimed at deterring the use of coercive practices in resolving territorial and political disputes, such as Taiwan, South China Sea (SCS), and East China Sea (ECS). Additionally, the Quad serves as a platform for diplomatic consultation, military cooperation, information exchange, and economic integration. President Biden has expressed concerns about the threat posed by China’s security apparatus, and his approach emphasizes working through multilateral institutions, as demonstrated by multiple Quad summits.

It is important to note that any conflict in the region will be having a detrimental effect on cooperative mechanisms in the region. Therefore, communication and cooperation are key in addressing the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, instead of resorting to quasi-security groupings.

The US side is currently playing a significant security leadership role in the Indo-Pacific region. However, China views this role as a challenge to its own interests and aims to neutralize any anti-China bloc in the region. It has accused the US of stoking tensions and has advised the US to adopt a more cooperative approach, rather than indulging in a new Cold War. China has also urged the US to look beyond its narrow political agendas and has proposed the path of peaceful development. Furthermore, it has denounced the US efforts to impose its will on the Asian region. It is important to note that any conflict in the region will be having a detrimental effect on cooperative mechanisms in the region. Therefore, communication and cooperation are key in addressing the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, instead of resorting to quasi-security groupings.

Africa-Russia & the Changing World Order

By
Dr. Usman
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3

South Africa and Russia have pledged to deepen bilateral relations and will conduct a combined military exercise on the anniversary of Ukraine’s invasion. Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, paid a visit to Pretoria as part of his second trip to Africa since the invasion; he will also allegedly visit Botswana, Angola, and Eswatini. The journey largely served as a declaration of Russia’s “non-isolation,” sending the message that important strategic partnerships still exist despite Western sanctions and attempts to exclude it from the international scene.

The current global geopolitical tensions signal the need for institutional mechanisms that will have the stature form and global trust to promote and support global peace and security, according to the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has suggested Pretoria could use the chairmanship to push for the admission of new members to expand the bloc’s presence and challenge the dominance of global superpowers

Shortly after the invasion of Ukraine, on February 24, 2022, South Africa requested Russia to promptly remove its troops from Ukraine. But the tone has shifted since then. In the ensuing U.N. vote in March to condemn Russia’s actions, South Africa was one of 15 African countries to abstain. Asserting Russia’s withdrawal during their meeting would have been “simplistic and infantile,” South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said at a joint press conference with Lavrov. She also made reference to the massive transfer of arms that has since occurred from Western powers to support Ukraine’s military efforts. In addition, Pandor praised the expanding political, economic, social, and military cooperation between Pretoria and Moscow. It highlighted the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) group of top developing nations’ international obligations in a changing world economy.

South Africa will hold a combined naval drill with Russia and China. Hosting such operations with allies was a natural element of ties, refuting the idea that only certain nations are suitable partners. The combined drill, called “Mosi,” which is Tswana for “Smoke,” was timed to “attract attention worldwide.”

The current global geopolitical tensions signal the need for institutional mechanisms that will have the stature form and global trust to promote and support global peace and security, according to the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has suggested Pretoria could use the chairmanship to push for the admission of new members to expand the bloc’s presence and challenge the dominance of global superpowers. In order to guarantee that it is part of a revised international order, BRICS should take a constructive role in developing processes.

Between February 17 and February 27, South Africa will hold a combined naval drill with Russia and China. Hosting such operations with allies was a natural element of ties, refuting the idea that only certain nations are suitable partners. The combined drill, called “Mosi,” which is Tswana for “Smoke,” was timed to “attract attention worldwide.” South Africa has resolutely refused to be “bullied” despite pressure from its Western allies to support its opposition to the invasion of Ukraine.

Russia’s ability to position itself as an anti-imperialist resistance force, playing on people’s animosity toward Western powers like the U.S., U.K., and France, owing to their history of tyranny on the continent, is key to its appeal to many African states. Russia has been able to take advantage of perceived “patronizing attitudes” from the West and “anti-imperialist emotions” despite its relatively minor trading ties with the African continent compared to that of the European Union.

Thirty years ago, the Russian Federation, then a part of the Soviet Union, supported the anti-apartheid campaign in South Africa, which would later serve as the ANC’s foundation.

Countries like South Africa have bought into Russia’s narrative that it is an anti-colonial power, that it stands up for the underdog, that having one superpower—and having that superpower be the United States—is bad for the world, that there should be multipolarity, and that there should be alternative sources of power and alternative methods of power distribution.

Protesters were waving Russian flags in Burkina Faso as they denounced France and the regional organization ECOWAS in recent weeks, underscoring Russia’s expanding influence. Undoubtedly, there is rising discontent with France in its old playgrounds, while Russia thrives on instability, and its institutions are filling the void left by France’s withdrawal.

Along with spreading pro-Kremlin messages, Russian social media campaigns have capitalized on political rivalries and existing fault lines, such as anti-French or anti-gay prejudice.  Countries like South Africa have bought into Russia’s narrative that it is an anti-colonial power, that it stands up for the underdog, that having one superpower—and having that superpower be the United States—is bad for the world, that there should be multipolarity, and that there should be alternative sources of power and alternative methods of power distribution.

The newly appointed foreign minister of China, Qin Gang, and U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen have all visited Africa in the last month; Yellen is scheduled to meet with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa this week. While U.S. President Joe Biden hosted a U.S.-Africa Summit in December, seen as an effort to reclaim some of the influence Washington has lost to China over the past decade or more, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also paid visits to the continent last year.

 

Pakistan-US Strategic Cooperation

By
Asad Malik
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7

With the shift in global power dynamics and America’s policy to contain Chinese global outreach, the reassessment of Pakistan’s ties with US based on Islamabad’s essential importance is more crucial now than ever. The Sino-US ties present balancing act for Pakistan in the aftermath of changing geostrategic environment. The prospects of which are provided by Islamabad’s inclination towards a shift from geo-politics to geo-economics and US’ troops pullout from Kabul and its interest in re-building Sino-US ties. In lieu of prevailing strategic environment of the world, it is imperative to build ties and partnerships through strength and positives that already exists. The expectation of a broad-based bilateral ties of Pak-US seems to be on track.

In last few years, US direct investment in Pakistan increased by 50%, taking it to highest level. Apart from defense cooperation, consumer goods, chemicals, energy, agriculture, business process out-sourcing, transportation, and communications are the major area of investment and cooperation between two states.

As per estimates of IMF, Pakistan is 5th biggest state in terms of population and ranked as 44th largest economy in 2022. The US has long been Pakistan’s largest export market, importing more than $5 billion in Pakistani goods in 2021-22, far surpassing any other country. The US has also been a leading investor in Pakistan for the past 20 years. In last few years, US direct investment in Pakistan increased by 50%, taking it to highest level. Apart from defense cooperation, consumer goods, chemicals, energy, agriculture, business process out-sourcing, transportation, and communications are the major area of investment and cooperation between two states. The US has also sought to deepen commercial ties with Pakistan, including through engagement by senior officials from US Department of Commerce, Department of State, and US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) with Pakistani leaders. However, Pakistan’s business climate has areas that need to be strengthened, including regulation, intellectual property protection, and taxation. The US continues to work with Pakistan to achieve business climate enhancements.

Pakistan extended ground support, air space and other logistical facilitations to NATO for conducting their operations in Afghanistan. In return, during its presence in Afghanistan, successive US administrations had been supporting Pakistan politically, economically and militarily.

During the George Bush’s tenure as US President, America declared Pakistan as ‘non-NATO’ ally. Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf joined hands with America to eliminate terrorists inside Afghanistan. In addition to this, Pakistan extended ground support, air space and other logistical facilitations to NATO for conducting their operations in Afghanistan. In return, during its presence in Afghanistan, successive US administrations had been supporting Pakistan politically, economically and militarily.

Likewise, Pakistan was a close US ally during the cold war that began. Pakistan partnered with US in various counter-terrorism activities as well to bring peace in the region. Their bilateral ties have seen many ups and downs during America’s invasion of US. The bilateral ties between two states soured when Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was found in Abbottabad and Obama administration took him out without informing Pakistan. Their ties have remained strained since then, although bilateral consultations, even high-level visits by Pakistani rulers to Washington, have continued.

Pakistan seeking relations anchored in a mutually benefitting bilateral exchange, a shift from traditional security lens is imperative. As a consequence of transforming regional and global dynamics, the present phases of ties are currently in transition. With the realignment of ties taking place in both countries, a reassessment of bilateral ties becomes crucial.

Regarding Afghan conflict, Pakistan extended full support to both Trump and Biden administrations during their talks with Afghan Taliban and facilitated the evacuation of US personnel from Afghanistan after the Taliban captured Kabul. Pakistan, on its part, has been pushing both Taliban and US to find peaceful solution to Afghan conflict. Pakistan played pivotal role in bringing both Taliban and US on the negotiating table to end the war in Afghanistan. However, after pulling out troops from Afghanistan, US alienated Pakistan not only politically but militarily as well. The abrupt US decision of leaving Afghanistan had created security dilemma for Pakistan. The US, since then, stopped engaging Pakistan at strategic level, economic and political levels.

However, recent strategic environment in the region is compelling US to engage Pakistan at strategic front. Therefore, for the first time in last few years, US emphasized its strategic partnership with Pakistan, while saying Islamabad doesn’t need to strain its ties with China to maintain relationship with Washington. Recently, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto visited US and announced that both countries will start dialogues on counter-terrorism domain next month. Some recent developments such as India’s decision to abstain from UN Security Council vote on Ukraine and a missile deal with Russia apparently have also softened the US attitude towards Pakistan.

Strategic environment in the region is compelling US to engage Pakistan at strategic front. Therefore, for the first time in last few years, US emphasized its strategic partnership with Pakistan, while saying Islamabad doesn’t need to strain its ties with China to maintain relationship with Washington.

With Pakistan seeking relations anchored in a mutually benefitting bilateral exchange, a shift from traditional security lens is imperative. As a consequence of transforming regional and global dynamics, the present phases of ties are currently in transition. With the realignment of ties taking place in both countries, a reassessment of bilateral ties becomes crucial. It requires a partnership that is predicated on developing the relationship exclusive of singular agendas and factors extraneous to bilateral relations. Moreover, the relations must seek a broad based association and alliance that is multifaceted and multi-tier with an increased focus on nontraditional challenges such as climate change, energy, water scarcity, and food and human security.

The relations must seek a broad based association and alliance that is multifaceted and multi-tier with an increased focus on nontraditional challenges such as climate change, energy, water scarcity, and food and human security.

There are multiple opportunities for collaborations in areas that are non-security in nature. Pakistan US ties even during the lowest of the lows have remained workable and cordial. As Pakistan pivots its focus to geo-economics it can reset as well as leverage its relations with US in multiple non-strategic and non-security areas. The ingredients needed to build a secure and broad-based relationship are there it only needs to be anchored correctly.

The current US engagement with Pakistan offers certain lessons for American policymakers. The US must help Pakistan pursue a path that meets its people’s democratic aspirations and socioeconomic needs and is resilient enough to accommodate regional, religious, and sectarian differences. Only such a course can help Pakistan become a stable and responsible member of the international community, at peace with itself and with its neighbors.

The US must help Pakistan pursue a path that meets its people’s democratic aspirations and socioeconomic needs and is resilient enough to accommodate regional, religious, and sectarian differences.

Lastly, in recent years, China has emerged as the key factor in US foreign policies as Washington seeks to contain Beijing’s growing influence. US policy makers see India as a key player in containing China’s influence and in their efforts to please India, they often ignore Pakistan’s interests, even on issues like Kashmir.

Hope and Despair –The Turkey Syria Earthquake 2023

By
Nousheen Ashraf
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1

The 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake is a tragedy that has shocked the world. The magnitude 7.8 and 7.6 earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria on Monday are classified as “major” on the Richter scale. A first 7.8-magnitude quake struck at 4.17 am (1.17 GMT) on Monday 6th February 2023, near the Turkish city of Gaziantep, home to about 2 million people. It was followed by a 7.5-magnitude tremor and several aftershocks. It was the most powerful earthquake recorded in the region in over a century. The event struck an already fraught region with a new level of devastation, leaving hundreds of thousands of people homeless and thousands dead. The impact of the earthquake was felt across the region.

Recent reports show that the death toll from the Turkey-Syria earthquakes has risen to more than 15,000. At least 12,391 people have died in Turkey, according to officials, while at least 2,992 have been killed in Syria and the number is increasing with every passing day. The situation is tragic in every sense of the word and hundreds of families are still under the rubble.

The situation is tragic in every sense of the word and hundreds of families are still under the rubble. The scale of the destruction is truly unprecedented and will probably take years to recover from. The humanitarian impact of the earthquake has been immense.

The scale of the destruction is truly unprecedented and will probably take years to recover from. The humanitarian impact of the earthquake has been immense. In addition to the lives that were lost, there are now thousands of people who are homeless and in need of basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. The economic impact is also immense, with businesses destroyed and livelihoods ruined. Another looming threat is the harsh weather, since temperatures in the quake-stricken Turkish cities have plunged to a minimum minus five degrees Celsius in the past few days with overnight averages of -7 expected in Gaziantep.

Satellite imagery shows the massive scale of the challenge for emergency crews over the coming days. They show in vivid detail the breadth of the destruction that has unfolded in towns, cities and villages across the region. In the Turkish city of Nurdağı, close to the epicenter of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake, the roofs of many buildings have entirely fallen in. Other structures have crumbled all together.

A three-month state of emergency has been declared in 10 Turkish provinces, and aid agencies have warned of “catastrophic” repercussions in northwest Syria, where millions of vulnerable and displaced people were already relying on humanitarian support.

The reports also suggest that for the most affected area of Syria, infrastructure is to be blamed for high toll. The first reason for the quick collapse of the buildings in the Idlib and Aleppo countryside is the violent attacks these cities suffered, with all kinds of heavy weapons over the past 10 years. The destroyed buildings already had a weak infrastructure. Old buildings in Syria were also built without regard to natural disasters, while some newly built ones did not conform to technical and engineering regulations.

old buildings in Syria were also built without regard to natural disasters, while some newly built ones did not conform to technical and engineering regulations.

After Syria’s government lodged a formal request for aid with the bloc two days after a catastrophic earthquake, The European Union will now be working with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to get aid to both opposition- and government-controlled areas of Syria. The bloc, a major donor of humanitarian aid to Syria, said it was committed to helping Syrians despite the fact that it has placed the authoritarian president, Bashar al-Assad, and some sectors of the Syrian economy under strict sanctions.

Turkey-Syria Earthquake of 2023 shows the importance of disaster preparedness and emergency response. Governments must ensure that buildings are built to withstand seismic activity and that emergency response plans are in place. Further, the international community must also work to promote regional cooperation in disaster preparedness and response. Thousands of lives have been lost, and the death toll is expected to keep rising. Many more people are in need of urgent medical help. Hundreds of thousands, left without homes, must shelter from the freezing cold.

It should mobilize international aid organizations to provide immediate relief to those in need. In addition, long-term aid must be provided to help people rebuild their homes and businesses.

The scale of the disaster in Turkey and Syria keeps growing and the governments of the two cannot cop on their own. The international community must take action to help those affected by the quake. International aid organizations should be mobilized to provide immediate relief to those in need. In addition, long-term aid must be provided to help people rebuild their homes and businesses. The world must work together to provide emergency relief funds and long-term investment in infrastructure to help communities recover.

Pakistan: A Land Brimming with Opportunities

By
Dr. Usman
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0

Pakistan is strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, surrounded by several important countries. Pakistan may develop into a significant economic, energy, and transportation corridor because of its strategic position. Most significantly, Pakistan serves as a gateway to nations in the far east, the Gulf States, and Central Asian states that are wealthy in oil. Pakistan is a land of limitless potential due to its unique characteristic and advantageous position.

Pakistan is one of the world’s resource-rich nations, with significant amounts of coal, gas, diamonds, copper, salt, minerals, and gold.

Pakistan’s economy is the 40th biggest in terms of nominal GDP and the 23rd largest in terms of purchasing power parity. Within the top 10, Pakistan is ranked as the eighth receiver of remittances.  Agriculture, industry, and services make up the bulk of Pakistan’s economy and account for 19 percent, 20 percent, and 61 percent of GDP, respectively. Pakistan is rated fourth for cotton production, fifth for sugarcane production, and eighth and tenth for wheat and rice production, respectively. Pakistan is one of the world’s resource-rich nations, with significant amounts of coal, gas, diamonds, copper, salt, minerals, and gold.

Pakistan has consistently shown to be the most resilient country waiting for its long-overdue ascent. It meets all requirements to be a significant economic force in the area and Asia. It has enormous economic potential.

Pakistan is the world’s fifth-most populous country, with a population of over 220 million people. Of its 65.5 million workers, 10.8 million are employed overseas. Pakistan has the best demographic prospects for growth now that an increasing number of young people are becoming adults. Achieving sustained economic development will be helped by Pakistan’s growing youth bulge, which has various skills. To fully use the potential of the young, the Pakistani government is doing all in its power to equip them with the necessary training, chances for skill development, and employment. Pakistan’s consumer market is expanding quickly and has surpassed 161 million people.

Due to the global financial and economic collapse, mismatched economic policies, the fight against terrorism, energy shortages, natural disasters, and poor governance, Pakistan’s economy has shown remarkable resilience in reaction to shocks on both the internal and foreign fronts. Over the years, all these difficulties significantly hampered Pakistan’s economic progress, which stayed below its potential.

In order to stabilize the balance of payments and boost market confidence, the current administration decided to join the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility. Additionally, extra financial assistance from other bilateral and development partners will help stabilize and transition to rapid and inclusive growth. The current administration is steadfastly devoted to implementing extensive changes across the board. The goal is to make Pakistan a nation of opportunity.

The high-performing agriculture sector is central to the current government’s growth and poverty alleviation strategy. Through the inclusive expansion of the rural economy’s agricultural and non-farming components, it plays a significant role in reducing poverty and socioeconomic uplift.

Real estate makes up a significant portion of the economy, and the government has taken steps to enhance it. The preliminary GDP growth rate for FY2019 stayed at 3.29 percent, mostly due to agricultural growth of 0.85 percent, which was impacted by significant crops’ negative growth of 6.6%. The agricultural industry is Pakistan’s economic backbone, which contributes around 19 percent to the GDP, employs 38.5 percent of the labor force, and continues to be a significant supplier of raw materials for several value-added industries.

The high-performing agriculture sector is central to the current government’s growth and poverty alleviation strategy. Through the inclusive expansion of the rural economy’s agricultural and non-farming components, it plays a significant role in reducing poverty and socioeconomic uplift.

A “National Agriculture Emergency Program” with a budget of Rs. 280 billion has been launched to enhance the agriculture sector and comply with the economy’s needs to achieve overall GDP growth. To maintain a smooth supply and availability in the food supply chain, the program would be implemented with the cooperation of all provinces. It would focus on increasing agricultural output, fisheries and livestock development, and water conservation.

The government is offering incentives to the industrial sector via an export development package, gas and energy subsidies, and long-term trade financing to increase employment in this area. Because of anticipated expansion in the agricultural sector and government efforts in the construction, small and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs), tourist, and car sectors, the large-scale manufacturing sector, which reported negative growth in the previous year, is set to recover.

Because of the goods transport services connected to agriculture and wholesale commerce, the expansion of the LSM and agricultural sectors will likely have a positive effect on the services sector. Government incentives for export-oriented businesses and the recovery of agro-based industries will raise worker productivity, supporting the revival of LSM.

Other efforts and accomplishments include the Pakistani government’s active foreign investment promotion strategy and the many economic liberalization steps it has made to make the nation more appealing. For creating industrial units in particular niche industries, such as energy, ports, motorways, electronics, and software, Pakistan provides various tax benefits.

The administration is leaning toward creating Special Economic Zones to attract FDI (SEZs). In this respect, the CPEC prioritizes the Rashakai Economic Zone in Nowshera, the Allama Iqbal Industrial City in Faisalabad, the Dhabejji Industrial Zone in Thatta, the ICT Model Industrial Zone in Islamabad, and the Bostan Industrial Zone in Balochistan. However, other options include Port Qasim, Moqpondass SEZ, Gilgit-Baltistan, Mirpur SEZ, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Momand Marbel City. In these zones, the government will promote a business-friendly atmosphere, increasing exports and generating jobs.

The increase of 11 points in Pakistan’s ease of doing business index would undoubtedly draw in global companies and increase FDI. The Board of Investment will continue to promote a favorable business climate with the assistance of key stakeholders and will make further efforts to improve the ranks on the Global Competitiveness Index and the ease of doing business.

The government is concentrating on enhancing the investment environment to encourage foreign investment in the nation. The government has launched a number of international efforts to achieve this. Russia and Pakistan have reached a contract for an offshore gas pipeline. Saudi Arabia has also shown interest in investing in a new oil refinery in Pakistan’s expanding deep-sea port of Gawadar, which is expected to boost FDI there.

The government is concentrating on enhancing the investment environment to encourage foreign investment in the nation. The government has launched a number of international efforts to achieve this.

Similarly, the government promises to offer the necessary infrastructural facilities for traveling visitors while realizing the potential of the tourism business. To encourage tourism in Pakistan, it is appropriate to provide a visa on arrival.

Pakistan has consistently shown to be the most resilient country waiting for its long-overdue ascent. It meets all requirements to be a significant economic force in the area and Asia. It has enormous economic potential. A World Bank report claims that with strong economic policies, Pakistan’s GDP might reach US$ 2 trillion by 2047. The government has adopted a comprehensive package of economic and structural reforms in order to lay the groundwork for sustainable development and transform Pakistan into an equitable nation with limitless opportunities. The government is well aware of the challenges that Pakistan is currently facing.

What Lies Ahead for India?

By
Asad Malik
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0

The radicalization of Indian society is at its peak under the government of PM Modi. The ultranationalist Hindus are roaming everywhere in India and making the life of general masses, particularly Muslims, miserable. The history of terrorist armed organizations in India is almost 200 years’ old, which clearly means that thousands of Muslims had been killed in India for years. Terrorist organizations in India started terror activities in 1827 When Raja Ram Mohan founded an organization called Brahmo Samaj, which was later renamed Arya Samaj by his successors Dinanand and Dr. Munje. The agenda was to expel Muslims from India by declaring them foreigners. That was the beginning of the idea of ​​a united India.

India has been proactively engaged in destabilizing regional peace. Indian military is directly confronting with the armed forces of Pakistan and China. Similarly, India never missed a chance to malign Pakistan over flimsy grounds.

The successive governments in India have been trying to create negative optics against Pakistani government and armed forces. This trend is being followed since the partition of sub-continent back in 1947. Pakistan bashing and accusing Islamabad of every terrorist incident India has become pivotal part of Indian foreign policy. New Delhi’s diplomatic missions abroad are proactively engaged in misguiding international community against Pakistan. As a result, Indian Muslims are being punished every day in the form of riots. It is an astonishing that these extremist-minded personnel even rose to the ranks of generals in the Indian Army. In a nutshell, it would be fair enough to imply that India has become caldron of anti-Pakistan activities and propaganda.

For BJP, PM Modi remained unblemished during his first term in office notwithstanding unfavorable signs despite what might be expected, remembering lynching of Muslims by encouraged Hindus. Modi’s picture as a down to earth, business-situated leader, who has shunned Hindu fanaticism currently lies shredded. The destitution rate in India is increasing once more. Numerous Hindu youth have been radicalized. Everything necessary in Modi’s India to marshal a horde, as Kapil Mishra showed in Delhi, is a word. And everything necessary to transform the horde’s frenzy into a slaughter against a strict minority is complicity of police. However, across India, fearless residents keep on consuming open spaces in tranquil dissent. They realize that all they have left to spare their majority rule republic is each other. They realize that, quickly, the horde can seek them as well.

Thus, extremist Indian organizations, such as RSS and World India Organization, have changed their cloak over time to show their anger (in the form of sectarian riots) against Indian Muslims to avenge the partition of India and accomplish its so called dream of Akhand Bharat (United India).

Except for certain exceptions, overall Indian media failed to deliver truth to the public and upheld government’ point of view during and after the carnage.

The BJP, a political wing of Hindu racist RSS has stubbornness to stick to a particular ideology of Hindutva and not allow any other one to co-exist or to out-rightly refuse any alternate thought for the supremacy and dominance of Hindus. Intolerance and bigotry, which echoes its parochialism through hate-speech, are the hallmark of BJP.

In addition to this, Hindu zealots, with the help of state, are carrying out attacks against Muslims and other minority community. They are making their lives miserable. Recently, right-wing Hindu government in state of Uttrakhand has ordered demolition of houses of 50,000 Muslims. The Muslim residents in Haldwani town received the shock of their lives as they were asked to vacate the houses. Similarly, Mosques in India are dispensable. 16th century Shahi Masjid demolished in UP for widening of GT road just 2 days before the lower court was set to hear the matter.

Intolerance towards Muslims and other minority groups is on the rise in Narendra Modi-led India with Hindu extremist groups using violence, intimidation, and harassment against minorities on daily basis in the country. Recently, a church was vandalized and a statue of Mary was destroyed in India’s Chhattisgarh state. The critics of restricting freedom of speech often argue that it would amount to taking away the liberty of an individual. However, under the guise of exercising intrinsic rights, many perpetuate the crime of hate speech, giving rise to an air of distrust, and terror as it has become a norm in India.

Now, the time has come where international community must set aside their political, military and economic interests with India and must punish New Delhi for its vicious campaign against Pakistan. They must take notice of New Delhi’s continuous barbaric approach in Jammu and Kashmir where world’s largest humanitarian and communication blockade is going on. Likewise, international human rights organizations must come forward and ensure basic and fundamental rights of Kashmiri people.

With every passing day, Hindutva ideology is being expanded in the country. The goons of armed organization such as RSS and Bajrang Dal are beating, vandalizing and targeting Muslims and other members of lower caste (Dalits).

All this is being done under the patronage of nationalist and warmongering Indian government. Those who questioned Indian government’s fake claim are being killed and tortured publically in BJP-led states. Despite all these biased tendency of Indian government, government officials are still talking about the mantra of so called secular India. But the fact is that Indian democracy is under severe threat due to rise of Hindutva across the country.

It would be wise to say that Indian media has become mouthpiece of BJP and other extremist organizations to fuel more hatred in India. With this approach of Indian political, military and media fraternities, the concept of Nehruvian secular India has been vanishing from Indian society.

Book Review – Leadership: Six Studies in World Strategy

By
theadmin
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Leadership (2022) is a detailed analysis of six monumental twentieth-century leaders. By examining both the circumstances that formed these leaders and the strategies they used to shepherd their respective nations through periods of turmoil, it presents invaluable lessons for anyone working to shape the world’s future.

The book begins with the discription that in most societies and most times, leaders act like managers: they maintain the status quo. During periods of crisis, however, leaders must act, not just manage. In this regard, there’s a lesson to be learned from great political leaders – leaders who have risen up to the occasion, transformed the state of affairs, and guided their nations toward better futures.

The book deals in its introduction scrutinizes upon and learning from the strategies of six very different leaders. Konrad Adenauer used the strategy of humility to restore order in postwar Germany. Charles de Gaulle became the leader of the Free French using the strategy of will. Richard Nixon developed his policy around the goal of equilibrium.
Anwar Sadat carefully transcended Egypt’s reigning paradigm to achieve peace. Lee Kuan Yew’s strategy of excellence, Singapore became a thriving new nation. Margaret Thatcher helped heal a faltering Britain with her strategy of conviction.

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for leadership, just as no two leaders are alike. Unique historical circumstances produce leaders who, if the moment is right, can seize a tactic that works for their time and location – transcending old paradigms and ushering in new ones – if the appropriate conditions exist. Their separate societies were reshaped by Konrad Adenauer, Charles de Gaulle, Richard Nixon, Anwar Sadat, Lee Kuan Yew, and Margaret Thatcher utilising quite different approaches, ranging from humility to equilibrium, excellence to conviction. In a world that seems to want to forget, it is crucial that we keep these leaders and their accomplishments in memory.

Russia-Ukraine war and the Middle East Politics

By
Sidrah Zaman
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2

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Western nations that support Kyiv have a tendency to discuss the conflict in black-and-white terms with little consideration for nations that stand between the West and Moscow. Support for Ukraine is framed by US leadership as a question of safeguarding a rules-based world order that is being challenged by rogue authoritarians.

However, this Manichean story is often disregarded in Arab nations. Saudi Arabia and the other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations mostly see the situation in Ukraine as a complex European dispute that does not call for Arab nations to oppose Vladimir Putin’s administration.

Arab politicians do not want to weaken ties with Moscow because of this crisis, despite the fact that no Arab country has openly backed Russia’s invasion, occupation, and annexation of Ukrainian territory.

Arab politicians do not think their nations should weaken ties with Moscow because of this crisis, despite the fact that no Arab country has openly backed Russia’s invasion, occupation, and annexation of Ukrainian territory. As a result, although the GCC countries have mainly backed UNGA resolutions denouncing Russia’s actions in Ukraine, none of them have joined Western powers in putting sanctions or other restrictive measures against Moscow in place.

Some observers predict that the Saudis would resist Western pressure to side with Moscow as the conflict in Ukraine approaches another year. The kingdom is using this conflict to convey a message to the US that Saudi Arabia is not Washington’s vassal state and that preserving relative neutrality promotes Saudi interests.

Saudis have made clear that their objectives have been centered on preserving solid ties with their primary security partner, the US; their top economic partner, China; and their important partner in OPEC+, Russia.

According to Gerald Feierstein, a former US ambassador to Yemen, the Saudis have emphasized in recent years that they want to avoid being involved in what is known as “great power rivalry” in the US. The Saudis have made it plain that their objectives have been centered on preserving solid ties with their primary security partner, the US; their top economic partner, China; and their important partner in OPEC+, Russia.

Since Russia sent soldiers into neighboring Ukraine, Riyadh has continued to cooperate with Russia. In fact, just as the West was sanctioning these Russian energy titans at the outset of the conflict, Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Holding Co bought at least $500 million in Gazprom, Rosneft, and Lukoil. More recently, on October 5, the OPEC+ cartel headed by Saudi Arabia and Russia revealed its intentions to lower oil output.

Saudi Arabia professed that its financial and commercial interests, as well as market stability, were the only factors considered in making a choice to not openly condemn the Russian actions in Ukrain.

Saudi Arabia claims that its financial and commercial interests, as well as market stability, were the only factors considered in making a choice. Meanwhile, officials in Washington were enraged by the revelation because they thought the OPEC+ decision would help Russia fend off US and European sanctions and thwart Western attempts to isolate Putin’s regime. There was no question that Riyadh needed friendly connections with Moscow to coordinate oil output and continue a fruitful engagement with Russia over its actions against Iran.

Saudi authorities were keen to maintain the price of oil, mostly to pay a number of domestic development projects that unified OPEC+ agreements could fund only and maintain communication channels for discussing other concerns. Even if it is based on expediency and opportunism, Saudi Arabia’s continued increasing ties with Russia will increase tensions between Riyadh and Washington. Saudi Arabia’s reputation and image in Washington have suffered, especially in the wake of the most recent event at OPEC+, as seen by the heated language from US politicians about downgrading Washington’s security partnership with Riyadh and backing for the so-called “NOPEC” legislation.

Saudi Arabia’s continued increasing ties with Russia will increase tensions between Riyadh and Washington. Saudi Arabia’s reputation and image in Washington have suffered.

It will be difficult for Saudi Arabia to retain ties with both the US and Russia as the East-West split and great power rivalry intensify. However, Riyadh has made it clear that it will continue to work toward this challenging objective, which calls for carefully managing the globe’s evolving geopolitical environment. Saudi Arabia has continued to cooperate with Russia in energy, investment, and other sectors, but as it seeks to establish itself as a helpful mediator, Saudi Arabia has exhibited varying degrees of support for Ukraine.

Saudi Arabia and Turkey were crucial in helping to facilitate a prisoner exchange between Kyiv and Moscow in September, which led to the release of several Western people (including two US citizens) who had been arrested while fighting for Ukraine. This action aided Saudi Arabia in convincing the US and Europe that its position in the fight served Western interests rather than being detrimental to them.

Saudi humanitarian help is no more than a show of goodwill to alleviate the US concerns at its rage at the OPEC+ decision with Russia. Riyadh has said that it always supported peaceful conflict resolution but it refrained from overtly condemning the invasion of Ukraine.

In an attempt to strengthen Western perceptions of Riyadh’s neutrality in the crisis, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) promised to provide $400 million in non-lethal help to the war-torn nation. It is difficult to consider the Saudi humanitarian help as anything more than a show of goodwill when US rage at the OPEC+ decision started to surface. Although Riyadh has said that it always supported peaceful conflict resolution, it refrained from overtly condemning the invasion of Ukraine. Now, Ukraine does welcome the assistance announcement, but it is difficult to separate it from the animosity around the oil cut decision.

There are currently no indications that the fighting in Ukraine will end soon. The worldwide repercussions are alarming, particularly considering the threats to food security and the potential use of nuclear weapons in the battle.

Media’s Policy in the Wake of Resurgence in Terrorism

By
Asad Malik
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1

A picture is worth a thousand words, it is said. Today, mass media, particularly visual media, plays a critical role in instilling a sense of awareness in society. Visual media refers to various communication channels or methods by which knowledge and information are conveyed to viewers or readers via knowledge, television, cinema, posters, and so on. Whatever is delivered through visual media has an immediate and long-lasting impact on the minds of the viewers.

Even within the relatively short lifespan of the modern internet, social media platforms have evolved drastically. Common social media platforms have gone from rudimentary chat rooms, blogs, and email services, to sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube in a matter of decades. Though focused on the internet and social media, the link between social media platforms and narrative is fundamental because, as described previously where people are congregating there are always narrative processes occurring.

Negative news on social media is always disseminated promptly and widely which leads to negative economic and social outcomes that render a practical research agenda necessary to understand user sharing decisions. Moreover, news posted on social media usually includes images, but little is known about the role of such images in shaping user decisions to share negative news.

The young mind accepts the reel as real and is thus more easily molded and motivated by visual media. Today’s fashion, hairdressing, sexual liberties, dating, and awakening to children’s rights, as well as women’s rights, are all a result of the role that visual media has played in society. There is nothing wrong if visual media has such an emphatic effect on viewers, but channel owners must understand that if they show something of a violent nature, it can undermine the positivity of the role to be played by the media.

It is argued that the role of the media is to bring reality to the public, but how does showing mutilated burnt churned bodies help society or our nation? Some of channels are playing an important role in awakening the common man against corruption, the rotten outdated rites that continue to pollute society, superstitions, the killing of the female unborn child, and other societal evils. These are all very positive developments that have resulted in the authorities being on high alert and the government taking steps in the right direction.

ISKP, TTP, and BLF-BLA have managed to stay afloat by keeping its brand of militancy alive is through robust social media propaganda and its worldwide network of branches.

Likewise, ISKP, TTP, and BLF-BLA have managed to stay afloat by keeping its brand of militancy alive is through robust social media propaganda and its worldwide network of branches. No terror group has honed the art of using social media to stay relevant and promote its jihadist agenda as well as ISKP. It prioritized propaganda by replacing the centrality of territory with terrorist attacks and social media propaganda. ISKP accords propagandists the same weight it gives to its fighters. Al-Azaim Foundation for Media Productions and Communications, ISKP’s main propaganda arm, is transnational. ISKP attaches great significance to the power of propaganda on social media.

ISKP prioritized propaganda by replacing the centrality of territory with terrorist attacks and social media propaganda. ISKP accords propagandists the same weight it gives to its fighters. Al-Azaim Foundation for Media Productions and Communications, ISKP’s main propaganda arm, is transnational.

ISKP has begun publishing books, magazines, print statements, and video translations in English to globalize its local and regional narratives. ISKP’s designated branch media organ has been central to the group’s revamped media and communications strategy. The outlet emerged from an ecosystem of competing but aligned pro-IS propaganda groups and became the primary media wing for the development and dissemination of ISKP messaging. It has been thoroughly weaponized and deployed to advance ISKP’s media warfare strategy, ramping up threats to a lengthened list of countries and declared enemies.

BLF-BLA spread visual propaganda by closely filming their attacks on the army and paramilitary personal. They film convoys when attacked by IED’s, with native music in the background to provoke the sentiments if the masses. Similarly, Baloch dissidents in London UK, hung posters of the militant organization, to induce a visual impact on the people, to detriment of our national policy.

ISKP’s, TTP’s and BLF-BLA wars against the Pakistani and Afghan Taliban governments are comprised of interconnected kinetic insurgent campaigns and media warfare efforts. These terror outfits release videos entirely focused on criticizing and threatening the Pakistani government for its moral corruption, religious degradation, domestic policies, and foreign relations. And they tend to generate lots of national and international media attention. It provides a succinct summation of core anti-Pakistan propaganda narratives the group has developed over the past few years.

Hostile elements may use such occasions in order to accomplish their heinous objectives. It is very unfortunate that anti-state actors are actively working against the national interests of the country to undermined the overall security environment of the country. They have been using Social Media such as Twitter, Facebook and You Tube and many others as well extensively to spread venom against state of Pakistan. All this is being done at the behest of particular groups in order to create political and economic instability and undermine overall security environment of the country.

Anti-state actors are actively working against the national interests of the country to undermined the overall security environment of the country. They have been using Social Media such as Twitter, Facebook and You Tube and many others as well extensively to spread venom against state of Pakistan.

To debunk propaganda claims, robust counter-narratives are needed especially on social media. Publicity is the bloodline of terrorist groups, as terrorism by definition is propaganda by deed. Terrorist groups practice violence to highlight their political or ethnic grievances, draw attention to their causes and demands, or promote their ideological worldviews. The advent of social media has further enhanced the importance of propaganda for terrorist groups. These days, social media wings are the most important part of any terrorist group’s organizational structure. Social media wings of terror groups are responsible for broadcasting their respective organizations’ viewpoints, serve as a means of communication with the outer world, and hunt for new potential recruits and donors.

To debunk propaganda claims, robust counter-narratives are needed especially on social media. Publicity is the bloodline of terrorist groups, as terrorism by definition is propaganda by deed.

In doing so it is also the responsibility of our national media, not to give too much wind to the narrative of the terrorists and try to limit showing the crime scenes very blatantly and respect the sentiments of the victims’ families, because such visual imagery has massive repercussions on the minds of public. As Noam Chomsky said: “Everyone’s worried about stopping terrorism. Well, there’s really an easy way: Stop participating in it.” Therefore, the only way to stop the spread of terrorism is to stop talking about it.

These terror groups robust propaganda strategy underscores the fact that military means alone will not be sufficient to overcome the ideological challenge it poses in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. Instead, robust counter-narratives to debunking the group’s ideological claims with effective social media components will be crucial. The battle of ideas and narratives can only be won through better ideas and narratives, not bullets.

Robust counter-narratives to debunking the group’s ideological claims with effective social media components will be crucial. The battle of ideas and narratives can only be won through better ideas and narratives

Russia and Pakistan Energy Diplomacy

By
Dr. Usman
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0

The economy of Pakistan is under pressure, and several important economic indicators specify a dire scenario. The decision-makers must have a real debate about how they intend to take genuine action to address the difficulties ahead as the problems with oil, gas, and power worsen for the general public and the government. Unfortunately, we are mired in a political drama that never seems to let up.

The first shipment of crude oil and petroleum products is anticipated to enter Pakistan in late March after the completion of a definitive agreement between Pakistan and Russia. In Pakistan, to negotiate the contract, Russian Energy Minister Nikolay Shulginov said that we have already resolved to prepare an agreement to address all of the concerns that we have with respect to volume, payments, insurance, and transportation.

It is the first significant step that Pakistan and Russia have taken toward developing their bilateral cooperation in oil and gas trading. Pakistan now intends to meet 35% of its whole crude oil need from Russia and start imports in a few months.

Even though certain important elements still need to be worked out, the agreement would greatly impact Pakistan’s economy and relations with the rest of the world if it were to go through. It is the first significant step that Pakistan and Russia have taken toward developing their bilateral cooperation in oil and gas trading.

In the past, discussions in this respect remained at the level of first expressions of interest. Pakistan now intends to meet 35% of its whole crude oil need from Russia and start imports in a few months. If all goes according to plan, the trade may significantly alter the bilateral relationship, enabling both nations to better organize their interactions.

Most of Pakistan’s imports are made up of energy, and the country would benefit from cheaper oil from Russia by being able to control its growing trade imbalance and balance-of-payments issue. To pay for Russian oil, Pakistan is anticipated to utilize the Chinese yuan.

The possibility of importing gas and oil from Russia also gives Pakistan another outlet to acquire oil at a lower cost. This is crucial since Pakistan’s foreign currency reserves are adequate to pay for three weeks’ worth of oil imports, putting the country in a similar scenario to the default. Most of Pakistan’s imports are made up of energy, and the country would benefit from cheaper oil from Russia by being able to control its growing trade imbalance and balance-of-payments issue. To pay for Russian oil, Pakistan is anticipated to utilize the Chinese yuan. The joint declaration states that the oil and gas trade transactions would be set up such that both nations profit after an agreement on the technical specification has been reached. This may lessen some of the strain on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.

The outcome is also a significant diplomatic victory for Pakistan. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it seems that Pakistan has discovered a means to evade the sanctions imposed by the West. Pakistan might not have gone this far in talks with Russia if it had been concerned that the agreement would upset the United States and its allies. This is especially significant since Pakistan is now in negotiations for another review to allow the release of significant money from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The speed at which Pakistan and Russia are closing a deal suggests that the United States may not oppose the two nations doing commerce. It’s also probable that Pakistan accepted American advice while deciding to acquire Russian oil. The United States and Pakistan’s usual Gulf energy suppliers have not yet made any public declarations objecting to Islamabad’s continuing talks with Moscow.

The U.S. seems ready to ignore the agreement. Ned Price, a spokesman for the State Department, said that “the U.S. was sensitive to the difficulty of stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. I know Pakistan’s collaboration with the IMF and other global financial organizations. We want Pakistan to be in a situation where its economy is stable”. According to reports, Washington has increased financial involvement with the present Pakistani administration. A team of top U.S. Department of Treasury officials is scheduled to visit Pakistan shortly to address various areas of financial assistance for Pakistan. In addition, the American embassy in Islamabad plans a seminar on energy security challenges for Pakistan in March.

For Pakistan, everything seems to be going well. It is encountering little opposition in its efforts to reach an agreement with Moscow. Now, Islamabad should concentrate on fulfilling all technical requirements to guarantee that Russian supplies reach Pakistan’s ports as soon as possible. Thus, the IGC session is crucial and significant. The general diplomacy in the Asian area around energy and gas has also caught Pakistan off guard. A power struggle between the two giants has developed out of what started as China’s economic sway over the ASEAN area. It is now being fueled by Russia’s attempts to advance east. India’s oil consumption appeared to have no boundaries as it devoured roughly 60 million barrels of Russian oil in 2022. Is India only trying to restock its oil supplies, or is it attempting to sway regional oil diplomacy on the Quad’s behalf? With the best U.S. oil refineries awaiting Russian oil supply, which has been speculated as another reason for the increased Indian oil supply, a ban on Russia from Europe does not have a significant impact on its oil and gas supply. The officials’ nerves will be tested as they attempt to clinch a successful deal, particularly with the IMF watching their every move intently.

Pakistan’s greatst failure has been the inability to recognize the actual problems that we are currently facing and the propensity of moving funds from one area to another over the last 75 years without truly paying our bills and commitments. The most recent Geneva Convention is a prime example of this pattern when Pakistan obtained bank and soft loans totaling more than $ 9 billion to avoid the looming economic crisis. The facilitators of Pakistani government machinery need to reevaluate several things, including their upcoming diplomatic commitments and agreements as well as our internal competence.

The U.S. seems ready to ignore the agreement. Ned Price, a spokesman for the State Department, said that “the U.S. was sensitive to the difficulty of stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. I know Pakistan’s collaboration with the IMF and other global financial organizations. We want Pakistan to be in a situation where its economy is stable”. According to reports, Washington has increased financial involvement with the present Pakistani administration. A team of top U.S. Department of Treasury officials is scheduled to visit Pakistan shortly to address various areas of financial assistance for Pakistan. In addition, the American embassy in Islamabad plans a seminar on energy security challenges for Pakistan in March.

For Pakistan, everything seems to be going well. It is encountering little opposition in its efforts to reach an agreement with Moscow. Now, Islamabad should concentrate on fulfilling all technical requirements to guarantee that Russian supplies reach Pakistan’s ports as soon as possible. Thus, the IGC session is crucial and significant. The general diplomacy in the Asian area around energy and gas has also caught Pakistan off guard. A power struggle between the two giants has developed out of what started as China’s economic sway over the ASEAN area. It is now being fueled by Russia’s attempts to advance east. India’s oil consumption appeared to have no boundaries as it devoured roughly 60 million barrels of Russian oil in 2022. Is India only trying to restock its oil supplies, or is it attempting to sway regional oil diplomacy on the Quad’s behalf? With the best U.S. oil refineries awaiting Russian oil supply, which has been speculated as another reason for the increased Indian oil supply, a ban on Russia from Europe does not have a significant impact on its oil and gas supply. The officials’ nerves will be tested as they attempt to clinch a successful deal, particularly with the IMF watching their every move intently.

Pakistan’s greatest failure has been the inability to recognize the actual problems that we are currently facing and the propensity of moving funds from one area to another over the last 75 years without truly paying our bills and commitments. The most recent Geneva Convention is a prime example of this pattern when Pakistan obtained bank and soft loans totaling more than $ 9 billion to avoid the looming economic crisis. The facilitators of Pakistani government machinery need to reevaluate several things, including their upcoming diplomatic commitments and agreements as well as our internal competence.

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