The changes in the foreign policy are indicators that Pakistan is trying to understand the ground realities and taking decision in the national interest. These are encouraging signs that the US grip is loosening when it come to the regional politics and a morale booster on the domestic front. The factors of significance include firstly, Pakistan’s decision to block Nato supplies after the Salalah check post tragedy. The US never expected such an anger and action. It really created an environment of uneasiness for US. The Nato soldiers are used to having fresh supplies of daily use and also provision of arms, ammunition and other security devices, for their physical and psychological security. This dependency also leads to complexes, which sometimes make them to act aggressively by killing innocent civilians or carrying out degrading acts on dead human beings.
It also creates a feeling of helplessness and unworthiness leading to psychological disorders observed in irrational behavior exhibited towards self, colleagues and others.
The second important factor is the attitude of Iran. Iran is emerging as a power not allowing US to interfere in its nuclear program or internal issues. The mutual cooperation between Pakistan and Iran on overcoming gas and electricity problem is a message that both the countries can stand with each other in times of need.
The third issue is related to Chinese role regarding its economic, political and military dominance in the region. China has proved to be Pakistan’s tested friend in good and bad times. Pakistan-China friendly relations and mutual respect is considered as a thorn in the heart of some outside powers. The fourth factor is quite tricky and sometimes confusing when seen in the Afghan war scenario in the 1980’s is Russian role. Russia is changing its stance from indifference to friendly gestures towards Pakistan.
It may not forget the role of Pakistan and US in its pull out and disintegration, but it is trying to play its role as an important neighbor.
The recent tragic event at Siachen glacier is also going to affect the regional diplomatic scenario. Pakistan lost its officers and soldiers and not only the nation went into a state of shock but the whole world took it seriously.
The statements of demilitarising the glacier are also taken seriously. The other factor which is seen as bringing a big change in the region is the bilateral understanding and finding solutions to issues which are a cause of friction and mistrust between Pakistan and India.
Pakistan has shown leniency and gone all out to invite India to trade with Pakistan. It all depends on India on how much it shows its sincerity to trade only and not propagate its other agenda’s and objectives to weaken Pakistan.
The external and internal factors are bringing awareness among the people that nation’s survive due to their respect of sovereignty, good defense, good governance and welfare of the people.
ANWAR PARWEEN
Islamabad
