South Asia continues to be one of the most geopolitically sensitive regions in the world, where historical grievances and political disputes often hinder peace and development. As a result, Pakistan finds itself at the centre of this turbulent landscape, facing significant diplomatic challenges in managing its complex relations with neighbouring countries while responding to shifting global power dynamics. Pakistan’s diplomatic approach has been marked by efforts to balance confrontation with dialogue, strengthen strategic partnerships, and promote economic cooperation to foster regional stability. This editorial explores how Pakistan navigates its diplomatic waters by addressing its relations with India and Afghanistan, expanding global alliances, leveraging economic diplomacy, and tackling internal political challenges that impact foreign policy coherence. These factors collectively shape Pakistan’s strategy in responding to regional tensions.
To fully appreciate Pakistan’s diplomatic strategy, it is essential to understand the historical and geopolitical context of South Asia. This region has long been fraught with conflict, especially between Pakistan and India, whose rivalry is deeply rooted in the legacy of partition and the unresolved Kashmir dispute. The Kashmir conflict has been the source of multiple wars and continues to inflame tensions. In recent years, however, the situation has become even more complex due to evolving global power interests and shifting alliances. These developments mean Pakistan must carefully navigate its regional relationships while also responding to pressures from emerging global powers like China and the United States.
Moreover, Pakistan’s foreign policy extends beyond its immediate neighbour, India. The country shares a lengthy and porous border with Afghanistan, a country whose recent political upheavals have presented new diplomatic challenges and opportunities. Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan are critical not only for regional security but also for economic connectivity. In addition, Pakistan seeks to maintain productive relations with countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond, requiring a flexible and nuanced diplomatic approach. Taken together, these contextual factors provide insight into the complexity of Pakistan’s efforts to maintain stability amid regional tensions.
First, Pakistan’s relationship with India remains the most significant challenge in its diplomatic playbook. The Kashmir dispute continues to dominate bilateral relations, with Pakistan strongly opposing India’s 2019 decision to revoke Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. In response, Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic campaign by raising the Kashmir issue on international platforms such as the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. At the same time, Pakistan has exercised military restraint along the Line of Control to prevent further escalation. This combination of diplomatic activism and cautious security management underscores Pakistan’s efforts to maintain international pressure without provoking outright conflict. Nonetheless, many analysts argue that without direct dialogue between the two nations, these efforts may fall short of achieving lasting peace. Therefore, Pakistan’s approach remains a delicate balancing act between firm advocacy and conflict avoidance.
Moving beyond India, Pakistan’s engagement with Afghanistan is equally crucial. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and the subsequent Taliban takeover created an uncertain and volatile environment that directly affects Pakistan’s security and economic interests. Pakistan has publicly committed to supporting a peaceful and inclusive Afghan political settlement, actively participating in international forums like the Istanbul Process that seek to stabilize Afghanistan. Despite accusations from some quarters about Pakistan’s alleged support for militant groups, Islamabad maintains that a stable Afghanistan is indispensable for regional security. This commitment reflects Pakistan’s understanding that it cannot isolate itself from Afghan affairs and must remain engaged diplomatically to influence outcomes positively. Thus, Pakistan’s Afghan policy is a blend of pragmatism and cautious involvement aimed at reducing cross-border threats.
In addition to managing its immediate neighbourhood, Pakistan has worked to deepen strategic partnerships to bolster its regional influence. Foremost among these is its alliance with China, highlighted by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship infrastructure and investment project that promises significant economic benefits. This alliance not only brings development opportunities but also strengthens Pakistan’s geopolitical standing, especially as China’s influence grows globally. Concurrently, Pakistan maintains a complex relationship with the United States, balancing cooperation on counterterrorism with wariness of being entangled in great power rivalries. Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach also includes expanding ties with countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, thereby diversifying its international relations. Collectively, these strategic partnerships provide Pakistan with diplomatic leverage and economic support, enabling it to better cope with regional uncertainties.
Furthermore, economic diplomacy plays a vital role in Pakistan’s strategy to ease regional tensions. Recognizing that peace and prosperity are interconnected, Pakistan has advocated for regional connectivity and cooperation projects. For example, Pakistan supports the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, which could foster economic interdependence and improve energy security across South Asia. Similarly, Pakistan’s participation in regional organizations such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) reflects a commitment to building economic ties that transcend political disputes. Through these efforts, Pakistan aims to create shared economic interests that could reduce hostility and build trust among neighbours. Hence, economic initiatives serve as complementary tools to traditional diplomacy in advancing peace and stability.
However, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are sometimes undermined by domestic political challenges. Frequent changes in government, civil-military tensions, and political polarization often result in inconsistent foreign policy messaging. While the civilian leadership generally advocates for dialogue and engagement, some political factions and media outlets adopt more confrontational rhetoric, complicating Pakistan’s international image. This inconsistency weakens the country’s diplomatic credibility and makes it harder to pursue a coherent long-term strategy. Therefore, political stability and consensus-building within Pakistan are critical to strengthening its diplomatic posture. Only with a united approach can Pakistan effectively present a consistent foreign policy and navigate the complexities of regional diplomacy.
In summary, Pakistan’s approach to regional tensions combines active diplomacy, strategic partnerships, economic cooperation, and internal political considerations. Its persistent advocacy on Kashmir, involvement in Afghanistan, strengthened alliances with global and regional powers, and focus on economic diplomacy demonstrate a multi-dimensional strategy. However, internal political instability and inconsistent messaging remain significant hurdles. Pakistan’s future diplomatic success depends on resolving these domestic issues, fostering trust with neighbours, and maintaining steady partnerships. Only through a unified and clear foreign policy can Pakistan truly navigate the turbulence in the water diplomacy in South Asia and contribute to regional peace and stability.
