An effort has been made by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) to explain government’s response to media reports regarding isolation of Pakistan at the international level. FO Spokesman Nafees Zakaria has dismissed all news that Pakistan has become isolated in the international community, adding that the perception needed to be corrected as Pakistan is very much engaged in world affairs.
Undoubtedly, Pakistani high-ups as well as citizens are active at the international level. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has carried out a record number of tours to foreign countries. Pakistani businessmen and tourists visit different parts of the world. Currently, the premier is on a tour to Azerbaijan. Last month, Pakistani and Russian troops conducted their first-ever joint military exercises in Pakistan, which is being termed as a historic moment of cooperation between the two countries. These are positive developments, yet these ventures have failed to bring desired results. Pakistan is considered a ‘pariah’ state by a number of countries. There are cases that show a bleak picture of Pakistani society, which is believed to be a conservative one by many.
In the world of sports, Pakistan is facing a boycott by many sports loving nations. Since 2009, cricket has been suspended in the country due to the tragic attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, and no international side except minnow Zimbabwe has considered it safe to tour Pakistan. Quite recently, the postponement of SAARC summit in Islamabad has proved a great setback to Pakistan’s foreign policy. Pakistan should have talked to these states and convinced them to rethink their opinion but there seems to have been no effort to do so.
Pakistan needs to work on lines that can make it more attractive to other countries. The panacea for most of the problems of Pakistan lies in better economy. Now the global scenario has changed considerably. Nations are making progress by focusing on their potential in certain sectors. Some countries have become favourite tourist destinations, others are utilising their business acumen and providing incentives to investors, while a large number of countries have improved their economy by making a great deal of investment in sports. Different nations are promoting ties to use it as an incentive for the wellbeing of their masses. Rich states are striking deals with developing countries keeping in view their mutual gains. The latest example is the signing of trade and investment deals worth $13.6 billion between Bangladeshi and Chinese firms.
It is a blessing for Pakistan that it has all the resources that are essential for the progress of a nation. Pakistan has talented youth and attractive tourist resorts. It is rich in mineral resources and offer vast business opportunities. Pakistan needs such a leadership that can channelise all these resources. Instead of focusing on India and its propaganda, Pakistan needs to excel in the fields of sports, culture, business and tourism. Actions speak louder than words. Pakistan has to focus on organising international sports and cultural events. Quite recently, Pakistan has sent its delegates to other countries with a focus on highlighting the Kashmir issue. It is a good idea but these representatives should not limit their focus to Kashmir only. Rather, there should be groups that highlight the positive side of Pakistan, focused on promotion of investment and tourism in Pakistan.
On a short and long term basis, Pakistan does not need to waste its resources in repudiation of Indian propaganda. What Pakistan needs is utilisation of all its resources to help Pakistan be the country that it has the potential and promise for…starting now. http://dailytimes.com.pk/editorial/16-Oct-16/pakistan-must-act-actions-speak-louder-than-words
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