In present-day warfare, the most significant source of power is information. In a world filled with the internet and multiple forms of digital communication, any media outlet provides more than just a record of what has happened; it is involved in creating the social reality that we encounter every day. The only way to understand how this happens, especially in South Asia, is to analyse the media narrative through the lens of non-Western perspectives that underscore social, religious and cultural diversity. The new sources of internal and external threats that our modern-day states are facing from various individual groups have created a complex situation for every nation in determining its place internationally, as no state can any longer judge its position solely on material capabilities. In fact, as evidenced by the manner in which media affects the way we view global events and shape the outcome of political decisions, media power operates as an equal player to that of physical or material governments.

Since independence from the British Empire, Pakistan has had to navigate a labyrinth of geopolitical frameworks that are significantly influenced by both internal and external factors. Difficult and limited resources, along with significant instability in the region, have forced Pakistan to be cautious in dealing with international affairs. The emergence of Cold War 2.0 between the US and China has added to this complexity and complicated Pakistan’s strategic decision-making regarding foreign policy choices. However, in 2025, Pakistan illustrated diplomatic achievement by maintaining a hybrid foreign policy with both Washington and China. In this context of a new strategic outlook, Pakistan has an opportunity, through its deliberate manifestation of a strategic........

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