The year 2025 is witnessing a dramatic increase in Pakistan's geopolitical currency and its relevance in the region and the wider world.

Today’s signing of the defence pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, pledging a joint response to aggression, is yet another example of Pakistan's expanding influence in the wider region due to its effective diplomacy, large military, and status as a nuclear power.

While we do not yet know the details of the defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, nor how robust and comprehensive a framework underpins it, the development is very significant.

The pact underscores that despite owning advanced Western military hardware and hosting United States military bases, Gulf Cooperation Council countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar feel increasingly vulnerable to Israel after this month’s attack in Doha.

Due to its deep diplomatic, cultural, and military ties, as well as shared religious roots, Pakistan enjoys the trust of most GCC countries.

It is notable that despite Pakistan’s weak economy, years of political instability at home, and serious internal security challenges posed by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch militant groups, the country is making an impressive comeback on the world stage.

Allow me to share a few thoughts on what is driving this change, however nascent or short-lived it may prove to be.

It is a combination of reasonable policies and decisions made by Pakistan’s leadership at home during the last few years, and their responses to political........

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