The foreign policy of a country is of paramount importance as it outlines the objectives, ambitions and concerns of a state in the surrounding environment, region, and in the international arena. In a fractured global system and an anarchic international environment, Pakistan’s approach of ‘neutrality’ under its balanced foreign policy is rational and futuristic. Pakistan’s foreign policy guiding principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, non-interference, non-aggression, and peaceful settlement of disputes are to maintain peace and prosperity among nations. In this context, the recent ceasefire as well as continuous efforts for permanent resolution between the United States (US) and Iran, facilitated and mediated by Pakistan, highlight its diplomatic commitment and provide a credible example.
Over the years, Pakistan has maintained a balanced and rational foreign policy by eluding inflexible alliances and, even on many occasions, playing a very optimistic mediation role to end conflicts and to ease tensions between major adversaries. It was the same policy pursued by Pakistan in bringing Washington and Beijing closer in the early 1970s by arranging a secret visit of Henry Kissinger, the then Secretary of State, to China that put an end to decades of Chinese isolation, and paved the way for the opening of diplomatic relations. Likewise, Pakistan took a neutral stance during the Yemen war in 2015 despite having strong historical ties with both Riyadh and Tehran, as well as its role in enabling peace talks between the USA and the Taliban that paved the way to the Doha Agreement.
Similarly, Pakistan’s decision to remain neutral in key geopolitical conflicts, especially in the US- Iran conflict, has enabled it to maintain open channels for dialogue with all parties involved. Unlike various regional actors, Pakistan has positioned itself as a credible neutral negotiator.
Pakistan’s ongoing efforts for a ceasefire between the USA and Iran and subsequent facilitation of a durable peace are increasing Pakistan’s importance in today’s complex diplomatic circles as a credible and effective mediator. A detailed understanding of this ceasefire proves Pakistan’s ability to play a proactive role between conflicting parties. A region plagued with deep-rooted mistrust, historical grievances and intense strategic competition among stakeholders, bringing adversaries to a ceasefire and subsequently to negotiations for a durable peace is a big diplomatic achievement. By adopting this approach, Pakistan would further highlight its commitment to promoting global peace and stability
Another aspect of this policy would be to project a positive image of Pakistan before the international community. For decades, Pakistan has been perceived negatively by the international community, and it has been associated with conflict, security risks, terrorism, etc. However, through diplomacy and a positive approach of constructive cooperation with other countries of the world, Pakistan’s approach to conflict resolution through dialogue and promotion of peace and stability would be projected globally and create a new perception of diplomacy, and constructive cooperation. This changing perception has far-reaching benefits for the country and leads to better relations with the rest of the world and prospects of greater opportunities for economic cooperation.
Pakistan has maintained a balanced and principled stance by actively facilitating dialogue and building trust between the conflicting parties. This requires a nuanced diplomatic approach, in which Pakistan demonstrates its ability to resolve the conflict. With Pakistan’s increased diplomatic engagement, historical ties and strategically significant geographical proximity can be rekindled and contribute to its credibility and ability to act as an active regional peacemaker. The subtle and delicate approach by Pakistan and its policy of neutrality can be used as a model for other middle powers as it proves its mettle in conflict resolution. In today’s international affairs dominated by great power rivalry, there is a need for countries that can act as conflict stabilizers rather than escalators.
The international community is appreciative of Pakistan’s role as facilitator for a ceasefire between US and Iran and its continuous efforts for durable peace and has been viewing the country as a rational player that can play a constructive role for durable peace. These developments depict Pakistan’s evolving foreign policy of neutrality coupled with proactive diplomacy. The US State Department termed Pakistan a trusted mediator, while China’s support and its cooperative engagement highlighted its ability to mediate between rival blocs. At the UN, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appreciated the constructive role of Pakistan and highlighted global support for its active role in upholding regional peace and stability. Moreover, leaders of the UK, France, Iran, and Qatar applauded Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role. These reactions demonstrate Pakistan’s move from an inactive and non-aligned to an active neutrality. It not only maintains a balance in its relations with rival powers but also actively contributes to shaping peace processes by persistent diplomatic engagement. Pakistan’s foreign policy has evolved through the prism of pragmatism. Its effective mediation to end conflicts, to hold ceasefires and to search for their permanent solutions in different regions of the world, particularly the recent conflict between the US and Iran, would go a long way in bringing peace and stability to the region. Resolution of this conflict would not only increase the stature of Pakistan at the international stage, but would also be a huge contribution to establishing a stable global and regional environment.
This article was published in another form at https://stratheia.com/taking-no-sides-how-pakistans-balanced-foreign-policy-is-shaping-global-peace/
Dr Muhammadi is Associate Director Research at the Center for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Islamabad and is currently placed at CISS-KIU Research Center, Karakorum International University (KIU), Gilgit-Baltistan, Gilgit.
