A case for neutrality

A case for neutrality

Dr. Jassim Taqui

While Pakistan is about to be a permanent member of SCO following unprecedented improvement of its ties with the Russian Federation, the policy makers should seriously think of pursuing a neutral policy towards all regional and international powers.

The unique strategic location of Pakistan obliges Pakistan to pursue strict neutrality especially when the present Cold War era and conflicting interests would inevitably ignite future wars. The foreign policy decision makers should opt for neutrality as defined in sections 5 and 13 of the Hague Convention of 1907.

This policy would ensure that belligerents would not invade Pakistan without. Furthermore, neutrality would not compromise Pakistan’s right to resist , foil or deter any attempt to compromise its neutrality.

A neutral Pakistan would have a better space improving its relations with all superpowers, regional powers and even states facing internal conflict. Thus Pakistan would retain its unique relations with traditional allies like United States, China, Saudi Arabia. Neutrality should be an incentive to promote better relations with  EU, Iran and other important states in the GCC, OIC, NAM, SARC, G-8 and African Union.