As a journalist observing Pakistan’s diplomatic manoeuvres over the years, I have often found its foreign policy to be a balancing act – sometimes principled, other times merely symbolic. This is where the concept of “fig leaf diplomacy” becomes relevant. Essentially, fig leaf diplomacy refers to a superficial or token gesture in international relations – often to cover up real weaknesses, deflect criticism, or project an illusion of strength.
Pakistan has frequently engaged in such diplomacy, particularly in its dealings with global powers. For instance, in its relationship with the United States, Pakistan has often played the role of a strategic ally, yet the actual dynamics remain fraught with mistrust. We pledge cooperation on counterterrorism, but behind the scenes, conflicting interests persist. This pattern repeats in our ties with China, where we highlight economic cooperation through CPEC, even as concerns about sovereignty and debt remain unaddressed.
Our approach to India is another example. We extend peace overtures while simultaneously maintaining a hardline stance on Kashmir. These diplomatic gestures, while necessary, often serve as a cover for domestic political considerations rather than genuine conflict resolution. Similarly, Pakistan’s engagements with the Muslim world, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE, sometimes appear more about optics than substance – offering rhetorical support for Palestine or Kashmir while ensuring economic interests remain untouched.
Pakistan has long been a victim of international hypocrisy. Western powers, particularly the United States and its allies, have historically engaged with Pakistan under the guise of partnership, but their actions often tell a different story. The so-called “war on terror” is a prime example. After 9/11, Pakistan was declared a key ally in fighting terrorism, yet it bore the brunt of war-related destruction. While we sacrificed thousands of lives and suffered massive economic losses, our so-called allies used Pakistan for their strategic gains and discarded us when convenient.
Similarly, international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank extend loans under the banner of economic stability, but the strings attached ensure continued economic dependency rather than genuine growth. These institutions claim to support Pakistan’s economy while imposing harsh conditions that stifle our development. This is not genuine help; it is fig leaf diplomacy – an illusion of assistance that ultimately benefits lenders more than the recipient nation.
I also see fig leaf diplomacy at play in our relations with India. Indian leadership speaks of peace and regional stability, yet their actions tell a different story. While they engage in diplomatic dialogue with Pakistan on one hand, they continue to sponsor instability in Balochistan and along the Line of Control. The recent revelations about India’s covert operations against Pakistan expose the duplicity of their diplomatic engagements.
Moreover, India often uses trade and cultural exchanges as a mask for its real agenda. When it suits them, they push for normalization, but when domestic politics demand, they revert to hostility, blaming Pakistan for every internal disturbance. This selective engagement is nothing more than another form of fig leaf diplomacy – one that fools neither Pakistan nor the international community.
I believe Pakistan must break free from both being a victim of and a participant in fig leaf diplomacy. Our foreign policy should be based on clear, long-term strategic interests rather than reactive, short-term gains. Transparency and consistency in diplomacy will strengthen our position on the global stage. We must also build economic resilience so that we are not dependent on financial institutions or foreign aid that comes with hidden agendas.
At the same time, I see the need for Pakistan to expose the fig leaf diplomacy of other nations. We should not hesitate to call out international hypocrisy in forums like the UN, OIC, and regional platforms. By doing so, we can reshape narratives and ensure that our diplomatic engagements are based on fairness and mutual respect.
In the end, diplomacy should not be a tool for deception. Pakistan must pursue an approach that is principled, transparent, and focused on real national interests. Only then can we move beyond the shadows of fig leaf diplomacy and assert ourselves as a nation that demands sincerity and fairness in global affairs.
