An effort has been made by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar to explain the government’s response to media reports regarding the isolation of Pakistan at the international level. The minister has dismissed the criticism that Pakistan has become isolated in the international community, adding that the perception needed to be corrected as Pakistan is very much engaged in world affairs. She also brushed aside the claims that Pakistan was excluded from the BRICS meetings due to the apathy of China and held a certain ‘unfriendly state’ responsible for the development.
Undoubtedly, Pakistani high-ups, as well as citizens, are active at the international level. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has carried out a number of tours to foreign countries. Pakistani businessmen and tourists visit different parts of the world. The minister has highlighted positive developments taking place in the country. However, it is also a reality that Pakistan is considered a ‘pariah’ state by a number of countries. There are cases that show a bleak picture of Pakistani society, which is believed to be a conservative one by many.
Pakistan needs to work on lines that can make it more attractive to other countries. The panacea for most of the problems of Pakistan lies in a better economy. Now the global scenario has changed considerably. Nations are making progress by focusing on their potential in certain sectors. Some countries have become favourite tourist destinations, others are utilising their business acumen and providing incentives to investors, while a large number of countries have improved their economy by making a great deal of investment in sports. Different nations are promoting ties to use it as an incentive for the well-being of their masses. Rich states are striking deals with developing countries keeping in view their mutual gains.
It is a blessing for Pakistan that it has all the resources that are essential for the progress of a nation. Pakistan has talented youth and attractive tourist resorts. It is rich in mineral resources and offers vast business opportunities. Pakistan needs such leadership that can channelise all these resources. Instead of focusing on India and its propaganda, Pakistan needs to excel in the fields of sports, culture, business and tourism. Actions speak louder than words. Pakistan has to focus on organising international, trade, commerce, sports and cultural events. Pakistan needs to expand its ties with other nations. It should not limit its focus to Kashmir only. Rather, there should be groups that highlight the positive side of Pakistan, focused on the promotion of investment and tourism in Pakistan.
On a short and long-term basis, Pakistan does not need to waste its resources in repudiation of Indian propaganda. What Pakistan needs is the utilisation of all its resources to help Pakistan be the country that it has the potential and promise for…starting now.
