ISLAMABAD: International lawyer and author Dr Ardavan Amir Aslani has highlighted Pakistan’s growing importance in global diplomacy, describing the country as a major geopolitical player with a unique position connecting South Asia, China, the Middle East and the United States.
Speaking on Pakistan TV show, ‘World This Morning’, Dr Aslani said Pakistan’s importance is well understood in Paris and other major European capitals.
“Pakistan is a big player and this is well known in Paris as well as in any other major European capital,” he said.
Dr Aslani said Pakistan’s credibility, neutrality and acceptability to both the United States and Iran made it a natural choice to play a mediating role during the recent conflict.
“Pakistan had all the attributes. It had the credibility of a strong nation, it had the credibility of neutrality that both parties could trust, and above all, Pakistan was and is a legitimate partner for both these nations,” he said.
He said Pakistan is not only an important South Asian country but also a major Islamic nation with deep connections across the region.
He described Pakistan as a non-partisan force, saying its history, message and credibility had made it a natural choice for sensitive international diplomacy.
Dr Aslani said Pakistan had managed to place itself at the centre of global diplomacy, gaining significant diplomatic leverage despite efforts by India to exclude it from the international arena. “Pakistan has managed to put itself at the centre of global diplomacy and has been a big success,” he said.
Turning to the Indus Waters Treaty, Dr Aslani said India’s efforts to reduce Pakistan’s access to water were a serious concern and described the issue as an act of aggression.
“Pakistan is very sensitive towards water and the major rivers that find their origin on Indian territory,” he said, adding that Pakistan should continue using all available legal tools at international forums to safeguard its water rights and sovereignty.
Dr Aslani also highlighted the significance of Pakistan’s independence and the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, saying Pakistan represented more than a country or territory.
“Pakistan is more than a country. It's more than a territory. Pakistan is the first global message pursuant to the wise direction provided by the Quaid-e-Azam,” he said.
He said Pakistan’s independence demonstrated the right of nations to determine their own destiny and described the country as a potential message of tolerance for Islam.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s educated, open-minded and globally connected youth as one of its greatest strengths.
Dr Aslani also stressed the need for Pakistan to highlight its economic potential, educated population and strategic relationships.
“Pakistan needs to be sitting exactly where it is sitting now, at the center of discussions between the Middle East, Asia, and the United States,” he said.
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
