Turning Point for Pakistan Diplomacy
Turning Point for Pakistan Diplomacy: The recent tension with India in May has unexpectedly helped Pakistan improve its global image. For a long time, Pakistan was focused on fixing its economy, but now it is gaining importance in world politics. This time, Pakistan is not just reacting to events—it is taking a stronger role in shaping its future.
Strategic Gains from Regional Tensions
Although the conflict was dangerous, it ended up being a diplomatic advantage for Pakistan. India’s usual claim that Pakistan supports terrorism is no longer very convincing, especially after the Pahalgam incident, where clear evidence was missing.
Pakistan’s strong but careful military response surprised many and showed growing confidence. At the same time, Pakistan has quietly improved its security relationship with the United States, which has increased its influence.
Strengthening Diplomatic Leverage and Alliances
Some key factors behind this change include Pakistan’s close ties with China and Turkiye, and its valuable mineral resources, which are gaining international interest. Pakistan’s role in regional security, especially in Afghanistan, and its balanced response during the Iran-Israel crisis have also improved its reputation.
Pakistan is now reaching out to Central Asia and parts of South Asia, like Bangladesh. As India faces criticism and Russia becomes more self-focused, Pakistan has a chance to form new partnerships—but only if it stays strategically focused.
Internal Stability: The Key to Lasting Impact
However, these global opportunities depend on Pakistan achieving internal stability. To maintain its growing influence, it must strengthen its economy, political system, and institutions. Without this foundation, its recent gains could prove short-lived. The leadership now recognises that defeating terrorism is essential for long-term success.
The army has called for strong, coordinated action against all types of terrorist groups. It continues counterterrorism operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near the Afghan border—efforts that have drawn international attention.
India still exploits one key vulnerability: the presence of banned groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which previously operated in Indian-held Kashmir. Although Pakistan has acted against these groups, largely due to FATF pressure, India insists they remain active.
This narrative has helped India influence global opinion. But without credible evidence, its argument may weaken, possibly forcing a shift in approach and creating space for more balanced dialogue.
Recent FATF reports highlight contrasting approaches. Pakistan submitted detailed case studies, backed by intelligence from its National Counter Terrorism Authority. India’s submission, by contrast, appeared more political and lacked clear sourcing.
Indian media further distorted FATF findings by falsely claiming Pakistan was non-compliant. In truth, Pakistan’s efforts were acknowledged and appreciated by FATF member states.
As India’s claims lose international traction, Pakistan has started blaming India for most terror incidents on its soil. However, mirroring India’s tactics may undermine Pakistan’s credibility. Instead, it should focus on credible reforms, not rhetoric.
With the global environment shifting in its favour, Pakistan must continue dismantling terrorist networks and strengthening institutions. Only sustained, genuine progress will secure international trust and long-term diplomatic success.
Published in Dawn, 13th July 2025
