Courting allies like never before

In choosing Saudi Arabia as the venue of his first-ever official trip as prime minister, Imran Khan has indicated to compatriots and the world at large that Pakistan is keen to strengthen its fraternal relations with the Gulf’s leading economic and political powerhouse. As the long time pivot of our foreign policy initiatives, Saudi Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis and the country itself has benefited over the decades from Saudi largesse. Unfortunately, Pakistan has not been able to take its fraternal ties with the Kingdom to the next level on account of the trust deficit created largely by its venal political leadership in the past. But with Imran Khan in the saddle here are already signs that Pakistan may be on the cusp of a refreshing change.

It was heartening to see the rousing reception our country’s premier received in Riyadh. Personal charisma coupled with an air of dynamism, elements missing for so long from our foreign policy armour, seem to have been re-introduced into our objectives, giving the Saudi hosts plenty to ruminate about. The Gulf Arab media is abuzz with excitement over the latest developments in Pakistan that have allowed the country to navigate its way through minefields and put it along the course of stability. More miracles are possible in times to come. For that to happen, however, Pakistan has to build on the goodwill it shares with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. It cannot afford to turn its back on its Gulf allies. Islamabad must pursue its strategic interests in the Gulf more aggressively and intelligently. Previous lapses gave its arch-foe India the leg room to ingratiate and entrench itself in countries that are Pakistan’s closest allies. Both as energy titans and a major employer of Pakistani manpower, Gulf states must be courted with more urgency and dedication. By actively lobbying for a bigger share of the Gulf labour market, Islamabad could find the jobs its youth yearn for — provided they are suitably trained and attuned to the needs of the Gulf states. 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 21^st, 2018.

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