The chamber in Islamabad’s most exclusive restaurant was steeped in the scent of old leather and older privilege. A few retired foreign policy experts, their careers spanning decades of Pakistan’s chequered history, had gathered for their quarterly discussion. The topic was Pakistan’s foreign policy, but with a specific, urgent lens: the future of the nation's eco-military alliances. The conversation flowed with the ease of practised oratory.

First Expert: Let us be clear. The bedrock remains unshakeable. The Sino-Pak relationship is sweeter than honey and higher than the Himalayas. This is not mere rhetoric; it is a geopolitical constant. Our future, in terms of energy infrastructure and strategic defence, is inextricably linked to Beijing's vision.

Second Expert: Indeed. But let us not forget another vital trajectory. Pakistan and Türkiye are two souls with one heart. Their defence industry is burgeoning, and their political support on the world stage is invaluable. We must cultivate this brotherhood with the same vigour.

This sentiment proved to be a turning point, sparking a wide-ranging discussion. Attention quickly shifted to Pakistan’s critical back-channel mediation between China and the United States in 1971, along with Islamabad’s subsequent diplomatic facilitation, first with Saudi Arabia, then with the US-Iran, and more recently about Libya.

Third Expert: A masterstroke!........

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