2024 has been one of the worst years in terms of fatalities and casualties suffered by our brave sons and daughters in uniform as well as innocent civilians who have fallen prey to the brutalities of cross-border terrorism, aided and abetted by our neighbour to the west. It is time to reflect on the past follies of a few adventurers starting from 1956 onwards, reset our course and develop strategies based on ‘Pakistan First,’ not just in rhetoric, but in practice.
Pakistan faces a hostile propaganda against its nuclear defence deterrence capability, which we acquired to counter Indian hegemony and threats, after they had successfully exploded five nuclear bombs in 1998, following their first test in 1974, code named Smiling Buddha. Threats by Indian Home Minister L K Advani in 1998 and events of 1971 had made it abundantly clear that Pakistan must have effective defence deterrence, given Indian superiority in a conventional war. Pakistan does not have any other option, if it desires to retain its sovereignty and independence.
Failure means, being hostage to whims of a powerful eastern neighbour, ruled by ultra right Hindu supremacists, spreading hatred and venom against members of all faiths, in particular Muslims. We, as a nation, need to some soul searching, as to why the Indian Diaspora serves as lobbyists for their country, irrespective of which political party is at helm in Delhi, whilst our expatriates are divided and polarized, over-involved in politics of the country of their origin, rather than the country where the live, pay taxes etc. Is it because Indian constitution restricts its citizens to hold dual nationality?
It is unfortunate that Zionist and Indian lobbies have launched a vicious campaign against Pakistan, which must remain steadfast and cautious. Our diplomats based in key capitals in the West need to put their act together. It is also unfortunate that a few of our expatriates, holding dual nationalities, are conniving with them for petty interests. Whatever grievances these few may have, they should never have crossed the red line concerning Pakistan’s sole Defense Deterrence capability. Unfortunately, over the years, successive governments have been involved in posting their cronies as ambassadors. Such selections may have served the business or political ambitions of these governments, both civilian and dictatorial, or the individuals who were beneficiaries of such appointments, made in violation of merit, but Pakistan’s national interest has been compromised.
The latest offensive launched by powerful Zionist AIPAC lobby in Washington, in concert with Indian Lobby, needs to be countered by our diplomats, who should be well versed and experienced in such matters. They must never allow this hostile lobby to overwhelm them. It was their professional duty to present our case, with an effective narrative, in major capitals of the world, such as Washington, London, Europe, Middle Eastern countries, Russia, China etc.
This should have been done over the years, as a matter of policy, and not in reaction to a crisis, where they are seen involved in fire-fighting. Business as usual is no longer an option, because at stake is national security of Pakistan, which is far more important than the interests of individuals. We all exist because of Pakistan and must realize gravity of the crisis. This country today faces a very hostile environment, which requires collective will of all those at helm, to put their act together.
A lot of foreign exchange is involved in maintaining essential diplomatic missions, all over the world. Selection for diplomatic assignments should be strictly based on merit of the individuals, their experience and skills in negotiating and treading the intricate world of international diplomacy. It is their experience in international affairs and diplomacy which should matter and not the government offices they have held in Pakistan. Experience in administrative or command posts is irrelevant when selecting individuals for diplomatic postings. Unfortunately, assigning diplomatic roles to political cronies to protect personal interests has undermined our diplomatic capabilities. These posts should not be given as rewards to retired officers. Pakistan offers a generous retirement package, including pensions, perks and subsidized housing, comparable to those in Scandinavian countries. Such ambassadorial postings serve personal interests, not the collective national interest of over 245 million Pakistanis. Many beneficiaries have acquired or are acquiring foreign immigration, creating a conflict of interest when they hold allegiance to another country or assist their dependents in immigration.
Pakistan needs to have the tools and human resources to counter the viscous Zionist and Indian propaganda, which distorts facts and paints a negative image of Pakistan. There is no dearth of talent in Pakistan. All that is needed is the political will and commitment of those at helm to utilize this talent and project a positive image of this country. Pakistan First should be the policy, not just in rhetoric, but in practice. Our nuclear assets are only to counter threats by India, whose hegemonistic agenda is akin to that of extremist Zionist’s of Israel with their declared ambition of Greater Israel. The Pakistani State and its political leadership, along with all its paid elite, owe this to 245 million citizens of this country, who have wedded their fate to the survival and existence of Pakistan.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Lahore.
