By:Basharat khokhar
Since its independence in 1947, Pakistan’s foreign policy has struggled to gain consistent praise or direction. One of the primary reasons lies in the country’s internal political instability — dominated for decades by military regimes and weakened democratic institutions. This instability has often cast a long shadow over Pakistan’s image in the international community.
⚔️ Military Rule and Diplomatic Isolation
Military dictatorships have ruled Pakistan for a significant portion of its history, from General Ayub Khan to General Zia-ul-Haq and later General Musharraf. These regimes often prioritized strategic alliances for short-term benefits, sidelining broader human rights and democratic values.
In many cases, foreign policy was shaped more by institutional self-preservation than national interest. As a result, Pakistan’s credibility on human rights, democratic governance, and regional cooperation suffered considerably. Nations governed under authoritarianism rarely enjoy long-term respect in international diplomacy, and Pakistan was no exception.
🟢 The Rise of Democratic Diplomacy
However, every time democracy was given space to breathe, some visionary leaders stepped up to strengthen Pakistan’s global standing. A shining example is Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who revolutionized Pakistan’s diplomatic outlook. He not only laid the groundwork for Pakistan’s nuclear program but also strengthened alliances within the Islamic world.
🔐 The Secret Pact with Saudi Arabia
Zulfikar Bhutto’s secret agreement with King Faisal of Saudi Arabia was a turning point. Although never made public, this agreement reportedly involved covert financial and strategic cooperation — especially concerning Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions. That foundational trust kept Saudi-Pakistan relations strong, even when later regimes attempted — and failed — to sabotage them.
🇨🇳 China: A Time-Tested Ally
China has remained Pakistan’s most dependable strategic partner. From military cooperation to economic initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Beijing has helped Islamabad weather numerous economic and diplomatic storms. In times when Western allies distanced themselves, China stood by — reinforcing Pakistan’s geopolitical relevance.
🚨 Fragile Years and Diplomatic Retreat
Post-Musharraf governments, whether civilian or military-backed, largely failed to develop a coherent foreign policy. Internal corruption, policy inconsistency, and ideological confusion led to Pakistan facing increasing isolation. The FATF Grey List, strained ties with neighbors, and lackluster global engagements underscored the consequences of weak diplomacy.
🌍 Bilawal Bhutto Zardari: A New Diplomatic Face
Amidst growing isolation, the recent coalition government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif entrusted the foreign ministry to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari — a young, educated, and energetic figure. His appointment marked a refreshing shift from traditional diplomacy to a more dynamic and global approach.
Bilawal’s global engagements — from Europe to the U.S., the U.N. to the Middle East — have offered a new face for Pakistan. He has tackled issues such as climate change, regional peace, and human rights with clarity and confidence, portraying Pakistan not as a victim of history but as a willing global partner. While challenges remain, Bilawal has managed to revive the narrative of a progressive, peace-seeking Pakistan.
📌 The Way Forward
Despite some positive steps, a lot more needs to be done. Pakistan’s foreign policy must:
- Be Inclusive – Include experts and representatives from all communities (religious, ethnic, linguistic) to reflect the country’s diversity.
- Engage Educated Youth – Empower qualified young diplomats who understand global law, media, climate, and human rights.
- Distance from Extremism – Make a clear break from religious and ideological extremism in both narrative and policy.
- Involve the Diaspora – Encourage overseas Pakistanis to play an active role in building Pakistan’s soft image and contributing to public diplomacy.
🇵🇰 Conclusion
Pakistan’s foreign policy has historically been inconsistent. Yet, whenever democratic leadership has been allowed to lead, meaningful progress has been made. Leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto, Asif Ali Zardari, and now Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, have shown that diplomacy rooted in democratic principles, inclusivity, and global awareness can yield significant respect and results.
It is now the responsibility of every Pakistani — especially those living abroad — to be ambassadors of peace, progress, and pluralism, and to play their part in restoring Pakistan’s global standing as a responsible and resilient nation.
Long live Pakistan.
