October 12, 2023
The Forum for Dialogue and Diplomacy in Houston, Texas, recently convened a discussion that offered a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of US-Pakistan relations.
Facilitated by the intellectual Pakistani-American diaspora, this widely attended interactive dialogue emphasized several key areas where both nations can collaborate to foster a more productive and harmonious relationship as we move into the future. Here, we delve into the highlights and some of the key suggestions put forth during the discussion, each carrying the potential to shape the way forward in this critical bilateral relationship.
Mutual Strategic Interests: There is a need to underscore the importance of recognizing and aligning mutual strategic interests. It is essential for both nations to identify shared goals, such as regional stability, counterterrorism efforts, promoting peace in Afghanistan, and efforts leading to a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir conflict with India. By understanding their mutual interests, the United States and Pakistan can develop a more cohesive approach to address regional challenges effectively and work towards a resolution of the same with other regional partners.
Geopolitical Importance of Pakistan: Pakistan’s strategic location cannot be overstated. Situated at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, and being a part of the historical silk and spice roads, Pakistan plays a pivotal role in regional geopolitics and geoeconomics. Recognizing Pakistan’s significance as a bridge between different regions can enhance cooperation between the US, Pakistan and other regional powers in areas such as trade, transit, and conflict resolution.
Mutual Economic Interests: Pakistan is at the hub of the Middle East, Central Asia and South Asia. Economic collaboration offers a promising avenue for strengthening US-Pakistan relations. By bolstering trade ties and fostering investment opportunities, both nations can benefit economically. It is crucial to explore avenues for expanding trade beyond traditional sectors and borders and exploring new markets.
Pakistan Exports: Pakistan’s growing prowess in the information technology and textile sectors are areas that have expanded over years, and yet there is room to grow more exponentially. Pakistan is one of the few English speaking countries that has room for expansion in information technology and trade. The English speaking intellectual talent within Pakistan can be harnessed for mutual benefit, fostering innovation and providing American companies access to finished products.
Pakistan’s Mineral Resources: Pakistan boasts substantial mineral resources, including copper, gold, lithium, coal, salt, gypsum, and more, including oil and gas. Collaborative efforts in mining and resource extraction can help fuel tremendous economic growth and create job opportunities, particularly in Balochistan, Tharparkar and the tribal belt, while providing the United States with access to valuable minerals and resources.
Energy Cooperation: Pakistan is an energy-starved country, yet has ample resources in the form of coal, hydro, solar, and wind. Energy security is currently a pressing concern. By jointly exploring and developing renewable energy solutions and expanding energy infrastructure, including exploration in oil and gas, the US and Pakistan can contribute to global sustainability while enhancing their energy security.
Investment in Education and Health Sectors in Pakistan: Some of the best institutions in Pakistan were established and financially supported during their initial years by the Americans. These include IBA Karachi, which was the first business school offering a MBA in Asia, and LUMS Lahore, among others. Investment in education and healthcare is vital for Pakistan’s long-term development. Pakistan needs many good engineering and technology schools, as well as in medicine, nursing, pharmacy and health sciences. Collaboration in these sectors, including setting up of technology parks, can help improve human capital, and further promote socio-economic development.
Human Rights: A strong emphasis was placed on the need for human rights advocacy. The US should continue to engage with Pakistan on issues of religious freedom, minority rights, and women’s empowerment while acknowledging the progress made in these areas. There is also a need to support freedom of press and speech, in which the US can play a major role to ensure such freedom.
9. Strengthening Democracy: The discussion highlighted the importance of supporting democratic institutions in Pakistan. Encouraging free and fair elections, promoting civil society engagement, and strengthening the rule of law can contribute to long-term stability and prosperity of Pakistan.
10. People-to-People Contact: Lastly, people-to-people contact was emphasized as a powerful bridge between nations. Cultural exchanges, student programme, and increased tourism can foster a deeper understanding of each other’s societies and values, promoting lasting friendships and cooperation.
The Forum for Dialogue and Diplomacy’s discussion was a significant step in reimagining the relationship between these two nations. The recommendations presented by the intellectual Pakistani-American diaspora offer a roadmap for a more constructive and productive partnership.
In an ever-changing global landscape, it is imperative for the United States and Pakistan to work together, recognizing their mutual interests, leveraging their strengths, and addressing shared challenges. By embracing the suggestions highlighted during this discussion, both nations can chart a new course for their relationship, one that is built on cooperation, understanding, and a shared commitment to a more stable and prosperous world. The future of US-Pakistan relations holds immense promise, and it is through dialogues like these that we can collectively shape a brighter tomorrow.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1118378-a-new-course
September 04, 2023
The intricate dance between Pakistan and the US has been marked by twists and turns, highs and lows, and a shared history that is as complex as it is consequential.
From the remnants of the cold war to the turbulence of the modern era, the evolving relationship between these two nations has shaped not only their fates but also the broader geopolitical landscape of the region.
Amidst the currents of international diplomacy and the echoing sentiments of the people, a cipher from the Pakistan ambassador to the Foreign Office revealing supposedly US involvement in Pakistan’s internal politics has thrown another wrench into a somewhat complex tapestry of US-Pakistan relations. This episode, whether genuine or misconstrued, beckons us to reflect upon the multifaceted journey that has defined the diplomatic dance between these two nations over the past 76 years.
The story begins in 1947 when president Truman’s congratulatory message recognized Pakistan’s emergence as a sovereign nation. Since then, the arc of relations between Pakistan and the US has witnessed both remarkable highs and disheartening lows.
The early decades were marked by camaraderie, exemplified by the warm welcome of Pakistan's first prime minister Liaquat Ali Khan to the US. This enthusiastic embrace set a tone of partnership that extended to significant alliances such as Seato and Cento, underlining Pakistan’s strategic importance during the cold war.
The pivotal shooting down of a U-2 spy plane in 1960 further solidified Pakistan’s role as a trusted military ally. Amid defence collaborations, the civilian engagement also bloomed, epitomized by the USAID PL480 programme that catalyzed the Green Revolution and lifted Pakistan from food shortages. These decades saw grand gestures, like impoverished Pakistani camel cart driver Bashir Ahmad’s invitation to the United States, symbolizing an effort to bridge the divide between ordinary people on the street and global leaders.
Pakistan’s instrumental role in facilitating the historic rapprochement between China and the US stands as a testament to its diplomacy during those times. Yet, there were moments of disappointment, such as America’s inaction during the 1971 war with India. The complex equation reached its zenith during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, a period that, while cementing the US-Pakistan partnership, also sowed seeds of future challenges.
The 1980s saw the alliance against the Soviets, with Pakistan’s support contributing to their eventual withdrawal. However, the fallout from this era has been both profound and painful. The legacy of drugs and radicalism from Afghanistan, coupled with the destabilizing refugee influx, reverberates in Pakistan’s current struggles. America’s abandonment of the region after the Soviet withdrawal marked a turning point that echoed in Pakistan’s subsequent trajectory.
The discontinuation of F-16 fighter jet sales and the Pressler Amendment further strained the alliance, fostering mistrust within Pakistan. The subsequent decades were marred by political turmoil, security threats, and social upheaval. While acknowledging Pakistan’s choices and actions, it is clear that the intricate dynamics of the US-Pakistan relationship played a role in shaping the country’s trajectory.
The aftermath of the Soviet Union’s departure from Afghanistan and the subsequent ill-timed withdrawal of American forces laid the foundation for the rise of the Taliban, a group that would eventually seize control of Afghanistan in the mid-1990s, setting the stage for the tragic events of 9/11.
Amidst these historical tides, Pakistan’s political trajectory experienced its own fluctuations. The explosion of General Zia’s plane in 1988 not only took the life of US ambassador Arnold Raphel but also paved the way for the emergence of Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan’s first democratically elected female Prime Minister. Benazir’s ascent brought a breath of fresh air after the long Afghan conflict, marking a new chapter in US-Pakistan relations.
During Benazir’s tenure, Pakistan’s relationship with the US reached a crescendo. Her multiple visits to the US, including her address to a joint session of Congress, showcased a robust partnership. As the cold war curtain fell, the geopolitical stage underwent a transformation, with the US emerging as the sole superpower, heralding changes in alliances, foreign policies, and global dynamics.
The ascent of the Taliban in Afghanistan between 1994 and 1996 coincided with these changes, underscoring the intricate web of historical forces at play. Nuclear explosions by both India and Pakistan in 1998 further altered the calculus of international relationships. As Pakistan navigated these developments, the late General Musharraf’s assumption of power in 1999 marked yet another juncture in the nation’s journey.
However, it was the catastrophic events of September 11, 2001 that etched a new chapter in modern history. The late General Musharraf’s memoir reveals the coercive stance the US adopted, pressuring Pakistan to cooperate or face severe consequences. In the backdrop of smouldering ruins in New York, president Bush’s stark ultimatum drew Pakistan into the ‘war on terror’. The cost, both human and economic, was staggering, underscoring the profound implications of the nation’s choices.
Through the ebb and flow of diplomacy, assistance, and tensions, the US-Pakistan relationship evolved. The Kerry-Lugar-Berman bill offered a lifeline to Pakistan’s social sector, reflecting the intricate interplay of interests and obligations. Even as misunderstandings and mistrust plagued the relationship, including the OBL and Salala incident, various administrations managed to steer the ship on course, culminating in significant visits and discussions over the years.
Nonetheless, the US withdrawal from Afghanistan triggered a new chapter of uncertainty. The once-close partnership seemed to fray, culminating in divergent views on regional conflicts. As the geopolitical spotlight shifted to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Pakistan’s delicate balancing act under the previous administration further strained the relationship, leading to a complex web of reactions and interpretations.
Amidst these shifting currents, Pakistan’s domestic political landscape experienced upheaval. The deposing of prime minister Khan and the subsequent controversies around his removal created a backdrop of political instability. As Pakistan faces impending elections and navigates its role in a rapidly evolving world, it is essential that responsible leadership emerges to lead the nation through these challenging times.
The intricate and delicate web of US-Pakistan relations has traversed historical epochs, from cold war alliances to modern geopolitical recalibrations. The future remains uncertain, but there is an urgent need for both nations to understand the nuances of their shared history and find common ground to chart a path forward.
As Pakistan’s democratic future hangs in the balance, its choices will reverberate across the international stage. In the intricate mosaic of global politics, it is imperative that Pakistan and the US recognize the interdependence of their destinies and strive to forge a more stable and collaborative relationship.
The writer is a former senator and former chairperson of the HEC. He is currently the president of the forum for dialogue and diplomacy,
Houston, USA, and can be reached at: jlaghari@gmail.com
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1106506-the-complex-path-of-us-pakistan-ties
May 18, 2022
US-Pakistan Relations
Pakistan and the US have shared a long-standing military, economic and political partnership. Early on, from its inception in 1947, Pakistan has been a strong ally of the US. Following the Second World War when the geo-political map of the world was being redrawn, and the iron curtain was fast falling on Eastern Europe, Pakistan chose firmly to stand with the West. It signed both SEATO and CENTO unlike most of the newly independent states in Asia and Africa which chose to stay neutral by becoming a part of NAM. It reaped its rewards by being a regular recipient of US aid, which reached an all-time high under the Kerry-Lugar-Berman Bill (called the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009), which authorized the release of $1.5 billion per year to the government of Pakistan as non-military aid from 2010 to 2014.
During the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistan stood firm as a staunch ally of the US acting as a bulwark stemming the rising tide of Communism. However, since the exit of US and NATO forcesfrom Afghanistan,relations between US and Pakistan have taken yet another turn. Various factors including failed expectations on both sides, misunderstandings particularly at the head of state level, and China’s increasing economic power and ambitions coupled with its close economic and military ties with Pakistan have strained the US-Pakistan relationship, even though strong bilateral relationship continues. Anotherstrong factor in souring US-Pakistan relations has been India’s continuous smear campaign. Pakistan desires a peaceful resolution to the Indian occupied disputed region of Kashmir in accordance with the UN General Assembly resolutions, in which we believe US can play a mediatory role.
US and Pakistan have a long-standing history of collaboration in the field of commerce, science and education. US is also one of the largest trading partners of Pakistan. It is the most soughtafter destination of aspiring young Pakistani medical professionals who complete their residency in the US and are contributing greatly in the medical community of their adopted homeland. There is also a sizable community of computer scientists who work in the US, many PakistaniAmerican businessmen and entrepreneurs continue to grow their business in the US, adding to the American economy, and a large number of Pakistanisreceive higher education in the US every year. Since 2005, Pakistan's Fulbright Program has been the world's largest in terms of financial contribution from the US government.
Pakistani-Americans
Many Pakistani-Americans have contributed to the American economy over decades through its engineers, doctors, businesspeople, teachers, students, and community workers. Though there are a plethora of think-tanks in the US, , which are global in nature, and which include South-Asia or the Middle East as a region of interest, here is no specific think-tank that is Pakistan focused, one which particularly projects the viewpoint of the million-plus strong expatriate Pakistanis living in the US, including very successful professionals and the business community. Today there is a greater need to have a think-tank which specifically focuses on building stronger US-Pakistan relationship, so that both countries may have more meaningful strategic bond in the future.
Think-Tanks in the US
Some of the well-known US based non-university centered global think-tanks include Wilson Center, Brookings Institution, United States Institute of Peace (IOP), East West Institute, The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, The Atlantic Council, and The Hudson Institute among others which occasionally cover Pakistan. However, none of them focus primarily on the strategic need to have stronger US-Pakistani relationship.
There are only a few well-known US scholars and former diplomats who write and speak on USPakistan related issues. These include, among others, Michael Kugelman (Wilson Center), Daniel Markey (author of “No Exit from Pakistan”, and at IOP), Dr Cameron Munter (former Ambassador to Pakistan 2010-12, former CEO East West Institute till 2019, now Consultant), and Richard Olson (former Ambassador to Pakistan 2012-15, now Senior Advisor to IOP). In addition, other wellknown scholars and former diplomats of Pakistan origin who focus on strategic issues include, among others, Shuja Nawaz (Distinguished Fellow at The Atlantic Council), Moeed Yusuf (formerly IOP and former National Security Advisor, Pakistan), Adil Najam (Dean, Pardee School of Global Studies, Boston University and Hussain Haqqani (former Pakistani Ambassador to the US, now at Hudson Institute).
Houston, TX
The absence of an intellectually sound platform voicing and promoting both the concerns and interests of Pakistani-Americans is strongly felt in the great state of Texas which is home to the largest Pakistani expatriate community in the US. Over 150,000 Pakistani-Americans are based in the Greater Houston area alone, which includes senior academics, businessmen, doctors, engineers, professionals and many others. There is an ever-increasing need and a strong desire among the Pakistani-American scholars, professionals and the business community to establish a US-Pakistan focused think-tank in Houston with a US and global outreach. The vibrant, dynamic and highly conscientious citizenry of the Pakistan diaspora is strongly desirous to create a platform of positive dialogue and engagement.
Forum for Dialogue and Diplomacy
The aim of the proposed think-tank ("Forum for Dialogue and Diplomacy", "FDD" or simply "Forum" in short) is to fill this vacuum by creating an intellectual and educational group which is bipartisan in nature and will focus on geostrategic, geopolitical, geoeconomics and geodevelopment needs of Pakistan and the US. It is to create a civic space for building bridges between the Pakistani Americans the diverse Houston/US communities by promoting positive dialogues and intercultural programs. It is not to be used as a political or lobbying organization.
It will engage prominent Pakistani-Americans, and US citizens on an honorary basis who have lived, worked or have strong interest in the region, in an advisory role, as well as encourage their and other stakeholder’s participation with the goal of enhancing US-Pakistan relations. Youth attendance will be encouraged.
The Forum will be established as a non-profit body and will include the Board of Directors (BOD), an Executive Committee (EC), Advisory Board (AB), and Interns. The Forum will have a strong presence on cyberspace and will include at least one physical lecture every two to three months in Houston. All activities of the Forum, including lectures and scholarly articles, will be made available globally through its website, as well as on social media.