Credible defence, mature diplomacy elevated Pakistan’s international standing: Nisar Memon
Defence and diplomacy not two altogether different subjects rather they are closely interlinked. The relationship between the two is not abstract but a ‘lived experience’ as described in the book ‘Defence & Diplomacy: A Compilation of Selected Articles’ by former Pakistan Air Force (PAF) officer, a distinguished author, media personality and defense analyst Group Captain (R) S.M Hali. Former Information Minister and ex-Chairman, Standing Committee of the Senate on Defence and Defence Production Nisar A Memon while speaking as Chief Guest saw the book as reference document for the researchers and students of internal relations who wish to know about Pakistan’s journey towards protecting its national interests by using both the mediums of ‘defence and diplomacy.’
He was addressing the launching ceremony of the book, the 16th in a row by the prolific writer. The India Study Center at the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad had hosted the launching ceremony.
Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal (R) Sohail Aman was the Guest of Honour on the occasion.
Former High Commissioner of Pakistan to Australia Ambassador Naela Chohan, Vice Admiral (R) Muhammad Haroon, Country Director, American Institute of Pakistan Studies Dr. Aalia Sohail Khan also spoke on the occasion.
The 886-page book a beautiful publication of the National Book Foundation (NBF), ‘Defence & Diplomacy’ comprises 12 extensive chapters and offers a unique and comprehensive collection of essays on topics ranging from defence, security, strategic affairs, and diplomatic challenges confronting Pakistan, and the wider region.
Nisar Memon while referring to the recent India-Pakistan May 2025 armed conflict, highlighted the relevance of the book and acknowledged that credible defence capability, along with mature and responsible diplomacy improves state’s standing and defence posture. National Security in contemporary times is shaped through media across borders.
He congratulated Hali on the publication of the book and regarded it as a culmination of a lifetime of rigorous and sustained intellectual inquiry. While regarding the book as analytical and balanced, Senator Nisar stated that the title of the book captures the fundamental truth of statecraft.
Hali, the author of the book, expressed gratitude to the ISSI for hosting the launch and thanked the distinguished guests. He reflected upon his professional journey as a solider, journalist, as well as defence attached. He described the book not just as a compilation of articles rather as a culmination of his lived experiences and intellectual engagements. He argued that the defence and diplomacy are inseparable from each other, and are not contradictions rather two sides of the same coin. Drawing upon historical examples and contemporary conflicts, he stressed on the significance of responsible narrative building. He further expressed the hope that the book serves both as a mirror and a compass for students as well as policy makers.
