Over the past fortnight, the illusion held by people and businesses in both Pakistan and India about their governments’ commitment and capacity to safeguard security and economic stability has been thoroughly shattered.

As policy choices of the political leadership expose them to heightened risks, many, gripped by deep anxiety, have begun to doubt fundamental life decisions, from raising a family to building an enterprise in a region marked by persistent nuclear threat and volatility.

Amid the media frenzy and fog of disinformation, the Pakistani business community appear to be grappling with conflicting emotions. While their patriotic instinct calls for a strong response to India’s violation of sovereignty, they are deeply anxious about the potentially devastating impact on business and the broader economy if the conflict persists.

Many national business platforms and sector-specific bodies have refrained from publicly commenting on the conflict, citing a diversity of opinions within their ranks. A few leaders, dismayed by recent developments, have agreed to share their minds, but only privately.

“Putting on a brave face in a senseless, deadly contest that threatens to obliterate lives and decades of hard work is hardly a choice,” said a frustrated executive, when reminded of his earlier dismissal of war threats before the May 7 attack.

“It’s deeply painful to witness such pointless death, destruction, and reckless squandering of scarce resources while millions in the region still await basic economic opportunities and a decent life. Who, in their right mind, inflicts such harm on their own people?”

‘With tensions expected to persist, even if war is avoided, businesses urge continued diplomatic engagement’

“With supply chains disrupted, markets on edge,........

© Dawn Business