Pakistan is geographically complex and strategically consequential, as it is situated at the intersection of South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East and shares borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran and China. This geographical location offers enormous possibilities for trade, connectivity and regional influence, but it also exposes the country to conflict, terrorism, political instability and geopolitical competition. Peace beyond its borders is not just a luxury of foreign policy, it is a precondition for economic progress and internal stability.

The eastern frontier with India remains Pakistan’s most consequential strategic challenge, shaped by a deeply painful and enduring historical legacy. Seven decades of conflict and the Kashmir dispute have created a relationship in which even minor incident can potentially trigger escalation to a dangerous extent. What is perhaps required is a sustained effort to manage differences without allowing them to become sources of conflict. Military-to-military communication, existing confidence-building mechanisms and arrangements to prevent accidental escalation should, therefore, be strengthened.

Pakistan cannot afford an insecure western frontier while simultaneously seeking regional connectivity

Pakistan cannot afford an insecure western frontier while simultaneously seeking regional connectivity

Afghanistan’s instability has serious implications for Pakistan because of cross-border communities, refugee movements, trade routes and security linkages. Pakistan cannot afford an insecure western frontier while simultaneously seeking regional........

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