This NSP cannot change Pakistan’s direction: TH

Essence: The editorial highlights the initiation of Pakistan’s first ever National Security Policy (NSP) which wants to commit Pakistan state with “safety, security and dignity” for its people. Several domains of economy, military, foreign policy, terrorism, water security and demographics are a part of the NSP. But one question remains - will Pakistan give prime focus to economy and resource allocation according to national policies or will Pakistan’s army continue to lay first claim to country’s resources. Through the opaque, non-scrutiny basis of operation, in the garb of defending the nation from external threats like India, Pakistan Army is actually defending no one but itself.

Opposing India and its policies has led Pakistan to fall into retrograde trap of opposing anything that could reform the nation. Eg. Stopping trade with Kashmir post abrogation of article 370. Another issue that plagues the system is alignment of fundamentalist groups with Pakistan’s political elite. Together, they support irrational policies towards their neighboring countries.

Their previous dependence on China for military support has grown to create economic dependence as well. Eg CPEC. China itself has spoken of a policy to temporarily shun the disputes to favor economic and commercial ties. Same should be the policy initiative for Pakistan through its NSP.

Why you should read this article?

• To understand the various dimensions of Pakistan’s National Security Policy.
• To understand the role Pakistan army has played over the years and its effect.
• To get an opinion on how the new NSP should orient for Pakistan’s progress.

Source:

• This NSP cannot change Pakistan’s direction