Pakistan is experiencing a significant decline in diplomatic relations, notably with China and the USA, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has not made meaningful advancements. Amidst this political landscape, former leaders Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari have taken steps to restore Pakistan’s diplomatic presence, focusing on engaging with both Beijing and Washington strategically. Their actions may be crucial in facing the challenges posed by the current government’s inactivity in this realm.
Pakistan’s diplomatic landscape is currently facing challenges, characterized by limited engagement with key global players. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made only one visit to China since assuming office a year ago, illustrating a stagnation in bilateral relations. Additionally, the Chinese Prime Minister’s recent trip marked 11 years without a visit, emphasizing diminished diplomatic interactions amid security concerns regarding Baloch rebels targeting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
On the western front, relations with the US show little improvement. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent trip to the United States resulted in controversies, particularly when he attended an event linked to a firm critical of the Chinese Communist Party. This incident overshadowed Naqvi’s meetings with U.S. senators, who notably tweeted calls to ‘Free Imran Khan,’ indicating a disconnect between Pakistan’s governance and U.S. sentiments.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has struggled to establish communication with the new U.S. administration, having sent multiple letters without receiving a response. Despite Sharif’s attempts at diplomatic courtesy towards U.S. President Biden, there have been no significant interactions, highlighting strained ties. This vacuum has prompted some former leaders to step forward to enhance Pakistan’s diplomatic standing.
The notable father-son duo, President Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, are making strides in rekindling diplomacy. Zardari is visiting China for five days, focusing on critical areas such as economic cooperation and CPEC’s future. He has a fruitful history of engagement with China, which underlines the existing trust between the Communist Party of China and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Simultaneously, Bilawal will be in the U.S. for the National Prayer Breakfast with President Trump, having previously engaged with the U.S. government during his tenure as Foreign Minister. This strategic approach of simultaneous diplomacy channels might rejuvenate Pakistan’s international relations, showcasing a coordinated effort in dealing with both China and the U.S.
The juxtaposition of Zardari’s meetings with the Chinese president on February 5 and Bilawal’s attendance at the National Prayer Breakfast on February 6 symbolizes a dual-pronged approach to revitalize Pakistan’s diplomatic status and relevance amid shifting global dynamics. The ongoing absence of direct engagement from the current Pakistani administration emphasizes the urgency for these leaders to pave a path forward.
The current diplomatic climate for Pakistan is marked by stagnant relations with major powers like China and the United States. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government has seen reduced interactions, with key meetings either absent or marred by controversies. This backdrop creates a pressing need for experienced political figures, particularly from the Pakistan People’s Party, to engage in diplomatic efforts that could potentially reinstate Pakistan’s significance on the world stage. Asif Ali Zardari, former president, and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, former foreign minister, bring a wealth of experience in international relations, especially with China. Their re-engagement in diplomacy, particularly during critical internal and external challenges, highlights a strategic maneuver to enhance Pakistan’s foreign relations while buffering the current government’s shortcomings.
The diplomatic future of Pakistan appears daunting, with decreased engagements and strained relations with key nations. However, the actions of Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari may offer a lifeline to revitalize these relations. By actively engaging with both China and the U.S., they are positioning Pakistan to regain its geopolitical relevance despite current governmental limitations.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
