Reimagining our foreign policy

The world is undergoing rapid transformation, with emerging alliances and a shift towards a multipolar world order. These changes are evident on both regional and international scales.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, China’s growing global influence, and significant policy shifts in the Middle East are all indicators of a new era. Amidst these evolving political landscapes, Pakistan is in urgent need to reimagine and adjust its foreign affairs strategy to align with the aspirations of its people.

States formulate their foreign policy based on their capabilities, political standing, and the dynamics of the international arena. Foreign policy is influenced by both external and internal factors. External factors encompass how a state manages its strategic environment, its interactions with other nations, economic interdependence, and multilateralism, among other considerations. Internally, foreign policy necessitates political stability, a robust economic system, effective governance, a well-defined ideology and a strong national security apparatus.

Pakistan needs a comprehensive vision for its foreign policy. The government, the state and the people of Pakistan must collectively and unanimously envision themselves on the global stage. To achieve this, Pakistan requires a decade-long, sustained, and coordinated effort to ensure that we progress in the right direction. Several steps need to be taken to manifest this vision.

First and foremost, self-esteem is crucial. I often recommend Howard and Teresita Schaffer’s book, ‘How Pakistan Negotiates with the United States’. It’s not just a study of bilateral relations; it also offers insights into how Americans, particularly, and the world in general, perceive Pakistani officials, bureaucrats, politicians, and anyone the people of Pakistan entrust to interact with the outside world. My takeaway from this book is that we, as the people of Pakistan, must prioritise self-respect and self-esteem while dealing with the outside world. All institutions, officials and bureaucrats must undergo rigorous self-reliance and self-esteem training. There will be no compromises on this matter.

Pakistan, often misunderstood as a small country, holds immense potential and a significant role to play in global peace and humanity’s betterment. Let’s dispel the misconception and educate Pakistanis about their true standing.

For instance, Pakistan boasts the fifth-largest population in the world, with a substantial market for business and connectivity. While internal challenges exist, we have the resilience to overcome them. As per World Bank statistics, Pakistan’s population stands at 240 million, a figure that defies the notion of smallness. Moreover, a significant portion of Pakistan’s population, comprising 64 per cent, is young and brimming with potential.

Pakistan’s IT sector also presents promising prospects for global engagement. Statista estimates that the sector generates approximately $2.46 billion in revenue. Pakistan also continues to export its finest cotton and leather goods to the world. These achievements collectively showcase Pakistan’s vast potential.

To unlock this potential, we must adopt a mindset that embodies Pakistan’s grandeur. By acknowledging our true standing, we can confidently demand to be treated as a formidable nation.

Third, refrain from using cliched and boilerplate ‘sarkari’ statements. Words hold significant power in international relations, and modern communication has significantly altered the dynamics of power in the global arena. I have frequently observed our fellow Pakistanis’ eagerness to demonstrate their positive attributes to the world. Naturally, everyone desires this, and Pakistan undoubtedly requires it. However, it is not necessary to explicitly state it.

To be respected, taken seriously, and given prominence on the world stage, you simply need to demonstrate your capabilities. Seeking excessive validation from abroad, particularly the Western world, will only make your efforts appear anxious. You do not need to plead when you exude confidence in your accomplishments. Work diligently and promote your achievements. Familiarise yourself with contemporary foreign policy branding techniques. Assemble a capable team and empower them to lead. Eliminate cliched statements and adopt a more authentic approach.

Fourth, there is no substitute for effective governance. Foreign affairs and governance are closely interconnected. Any domestic success or failure has significant repercussions on foreign affairs. I acknowledge that this is where Pakistanis feel the most pain. After all, all the recent uproar is about political chaos. However, that is where your work lies. Regrettably, it has become overly politicised. People desire good governance. Demonstrate its existence. It is crucial to foster a sense of collective effort, vision, and direction. Anyone who provides that direction will be the true leader.

Most importantly, education is Pakistan’s backbone. The federal and provincial governments must devise a robust and committed plan to educate the public. After all, this is the same public that will represent Pakistan at the national and international levels. Educated, well-mannered and skilled Pakistani nationals will triumph everywhere in the world. Conversely, the unskilled and poorly educated will be a liability. Pakistan must make a choice.

Lastly, there’s a need to revamp the quality of foreign policy thinking at all levels. The government and state apparatus must set foreign policy goals, region and country-wise, and evaluate them to ensure that we’re headed in the right direction.