Good Ties with Neighboring Countries Critical for Stability, Progress: VC-IPS

VC-IPS Ambassador (r) Syed Abrar Hussain delivered a keynote address at a seminar titled ‘Ideological Determinants of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy’, organized by Qurtuba University of Science and Technology, Peshawar, on February 16, 2025.

As a former ambassador and career diplomat, Hussain emphasized that amicable relations with neighboring countries are crucial for Pakistan’s stability and progress. He noted that it is in Pakistan’s best interest to foster stronger ties with its bordering countries, particularly Afghanistan and Iran, as without these relations, Pakistan will face escalating challenges.

Hussain maintained that Pakistan’s foreign policy is rooted in its Islamic identity, reinforced by the vision of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the collective wisdom of the people of Pakistan.

The former ambassador also discussed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a balanced foreign policy with global superpowers, referencing the country’s positive relations with both the US and the former Soviet Union in the past.

The speaker asserted that economic and defense vulnerabilities can often compel a nation to make compromises in its foreign policy, therefore, self-sufficiency in the defense and economic sectors is imperative for Pakistan to pursue an independent foreign policy.