Islamabad (Khyber Mail): Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to avoiding Cold War-like regional tensions and refraining from joining any anti-China alliances. Speaking at the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) event titled “US’ Asia-Pacific Strategy: Implications for Pakistan-India Relations,” he highlighted Pakistan’s stance against forming blocs to counter any nation, especially its ally, China.
Ambassador Ashraf Jehangir Qazi criticized the US’s shift from “Asia-Pacific” to “Indo-Pacific” as a containment strategy, positioning India against China. He argued that China, unlike the former Soviet Union, cannot be subdued by empowering India and urged Pakistan to steer clear of such conflicts.
IRS President Ambassador Jauhar Saleem warned of the risks of a new Cold War, noting India’s misuse of Western support to pursue hegemonic goals in South Asia. He questioned the West’s trust in India, citing its strategic autonomy.
Ambassador Zameer Akram pointed out that the US’s Indo-Pacific strategy aims for dominance, including control of sea lanes to counter China. He noted that US support has emboldened India, which is becoming more aggressive in the region.
Professor Zafar Jaspal highlighted the US-India alliance and the challenges it poses for Pakistan, given India’s aggressive policies under Prime Minister Modi. He noted that India’s regional challenges are increasing due to its aggressive stance.
Security expert Syed Muhammad Ali emphasized that China seeks mutually beneficial partnerships rather than regional dominance. He cited instances of Indian aggression, such as Pulwama and Galwan, facilitated by US support.
The event saw participation from diplomats, academicians, researchers, journalists, and students, reflecting a broad interest in the topic.