Abdul Basit Alvi
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to participate in a discussion with a prominent figure where several issues were deliberated upon, including Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its core concerns. During the session, it was strongly affirmed that Pakistan and its leadership have consistently upheld their clear stance on three critical issues without compromise: the Kashmir conflict, our Nuclear Program, and Pak-China Friendship.
It is noteworthy that Pakistan’s foreign policy has consistently upheld firm positions on critical issues such as the Kashmir dispute, its nuclear program, and the strategic partnership with China. Over the decades, despite encountering numerous challenges and fluctuations in international relations, Pakistani governments and leaders have consistently upheld these fundamental principles, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to national sovereignty, security, and strategic interests. The Kashmir issue has been a pivotal component of Pakistan’s foreign policy since independence in 1947. Following the partition of British India, the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir became a flashpoint between India and Pakistan. Pakistan has steadfastly advocated for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people, as guaranteed by United Nations resolutions. Pakistan’s efforts to resolve the Kashmir issue peacefully have involved various dialogues, peace processes, and international mediation attempts. Periods marked by heightened tensions and military conflicts, including the Indo-Pakistani wars of 1947-48, 1965, and 1999 (Kargil War), have tested Pakistan’s resolve. Despite encountering setbacks and challenges, successive Pakistani governments and leaders have remained resolute in their commitment to the Kashmir cause, emphasizing the necessity for a fair and equitable resolution that respects the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan’s nuclear program emerged in response to security threats, particularly from India, which conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. Pakistan perceives nuclear deterrence as essential for maintaining regional stability and deterring aggression. Despite facing international pressure, sanctions, and diplomatic challenges, Pakistan has consistently developed and upheld its nuclear capabilities. The evolution of Pakistan’s nuclear program has been marked by periods of international isolation, sanctions, and scrutiny from global non-proliferation regimes. Nevertheless, Pakistani governments and leaders have steadfastly defended the program as crucial for deterring existential threats, adhering to principles of responsible nuclear stewardship. Despite fluctuations in international relations, Pakistan remains committed to ensuring the safety, security, and reliability of its nuclear arsenal.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1951, the friendship between Pakistan and China has grown into a robust strategic partnership. Grounded in mutual respect, shared interests, and geopolitical considerations, this relationship spans political, economic, and military dimensions. The Pak-China friendship has navigated geopolitical shifts and global dynamics. Positive developments include strengthened economic ties under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has transformed Pakistan’s infrastructure and boosted bilateral trade and investment. Military cooperation and joint strategic initiatives have enhanced regional stability and served mutual security interests. Challenges, such as occasional strains in bilateral relations due to differing geopolitical alignments and economic issues, have been managed through diplomatic dialogue and strategic reassessment. Both nations reaffirm their commitment to a lasting partnership built on mutual trust and common objectives.
Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue, nuclear program, and Pak-China friendship underscores its unwavering dedication to national sovereignty, security, and strategic interests. Despite enduring numerous challenges and fluctuations in international relations, Pakistani governments and leaders consistently prioritize these core issues as foundational pillars of their foreign policy. As global dynamics evolve, Pakistan remains steadfast in upholding its principles while pursuing partnerships and initiatives that advance its strategic goals and contribute to regional peace, stability, and development.
Pakistan’s sacrifices concerning Kashmir have been significant. The nation has endured wars with India, notably in 1947-48, 1965, and 1999, each exacting a toll in human lives and economic resources. Pakistan has encountered international isolation periodically due to its stance on Kashmir; nevertheless, it steadfastly supports the Kashmiri cause despite the attendant challenges. Pakistan’s nuclear program exemplifies its resilience and strategic foresight. In response to regional security concerns, particularly following Indo-Pakistani conflicts and India’s nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998, Pakistan initiated the development of nuclear capabilities. This decision, driven by the imperative to uphold deterrence against perceived threats, has sparked global controversy while domestically perceived as safeguarding national security. The sacrifices made for the nuclear program have been manifold. Economically, diverting resources toward nuclear development has occasionally strained Pakistan’s budget, affecting sectors like education and healthcare. Internationally, Pakistan has encountered sanctions and diplomatic pressures; nevertheless, it remains steadfast in upholding a credible nuclear deterrent, viewing it as indispensable for national sovereignty and regional stability. The friendship between Pakistan and China stands as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and regional strategy. Dating back to the early 1950s, this relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing economic cooperation, military collaboration, and diplomatic support. Sacrifices in the context of Pak-China friendship have been less tangible but no less significant. Pakistan has navigated complex regional dynamics to maintain strong ties with China, often balancing between competing global powers. This relationship has been pivotal in Pakistan’s development, including infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which have the potential to transform Pakistan’s economic landscape. Pakistan’s commitments to the Kashmir issue, its nuclear program, and its friendship with China underscore its unwavering dedication to principles of sovereignty, security, and regional stability. Pakistan remains steadfast, viewing these causes not merely as matters of policy but as integral to its national identity and future aspirations on the global stage. As Pakistan continues to navigate the complexities of international relations, these pillars will remain fundamental in shaping its trajectory and defining its place in the world.
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s political culture often fosters blame among its leadership, which is then propagated to the public. In Pakistan, political opponents are frequently accused of undermining the country’s fundamental core issues, often without substantial evidence or justification, driven by political rivalries and animosity. Despite these challenges, it is reassuring that the nation and its leadership remain steadfastly committed to our fundamental core issues of Kashmir, our Nuclear Program, and Pak-China friendship. The people of Pakistan also demonstrate strong commitment to these foundational concerns. This clear stance and commitment on our core issues will guide Pakistan towards achieving its goals of development and prosperity.
