In a world that is increasingly interconnected and interdependent, no country can afford to isolate itself or depend on a narrow set of allies. Today, foreign policy is no longer limited to one-on-one relationships; it is largely shaped through multilateral platforms such as the United Nations (UN), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and regional groupings. For Pakistan to secure its national interests and uplift its global standing, it must play a stronger, more proactive role in multilateral diplomacy.
The 21st century presents a complex landscape. Countries now face challenges that do not recognize borders-climate change, pandemics, terrorism, cyber threats, and economic instability. These issues demand joint solutions. Nations that understand the power of collaboration have already shifted toward building strong multilateral networks. Pakistan must do the same if it wants to remain relevant and respected in the international community.
Historically, Pakistan’s foreign policy has been reactive, shaped by security threats, regional rivalries, and dependency on major powers such as the United States and China. While these relationships are important, they are not enough. In a rapidly globalizing world, we must widen our diplomatic focus. Being active in global forums is not about attending conferences – it is about shaping global discussions, influencing decisions, and defending our values and interests.
Pakistan already holds memberships in key international organizations, including the UN, the OIC, and the SCO. However, our participation in these platforms often lacks consistency, vision, and strategy. To improve, we must identify our strengths, set clear foreign policy goals, and speak with a strong, unified voice.
The United Nations remains the most influential global platform where international law is debated and decisions affecting the world are made. Pakistan has a long and respected history of contributions to UN peacekeeping missions. This is something we can be proud of, and it must continue.
However, peacekeeping alone is not enough. Pakistan must be more active in diplomatic negotiations, climate policy, human rights debates, and conflict resolution efforts within the UN system. For example, climate change is becoming a serious problem for Pakistan. Floods, droughts, and extreme weather affect millions of our people. Yet our voice in climate forums is not as strong as it should be. We must push for climate justice, demand more climate funding, and become leaders in environmental cooperation.
Similarly, Pakistan must regularly raise its voice on the Kashmir issue at the UN – not just as a complaint, but with facts, diplomacy, and alliances. We must gather support not just from traditional allies, but also from neutral nations that believe in human rights and international law.
Pakistan is one of the largest and most influential Muslim-majority countries. We must play a larger role in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which brings together over 50 Muslim nations. Unfortunately, the OIC often fails to take firm and timely actions on key issues such as Palestine, Kashmir, and Islamophobia.
Pakistan can help reform the OIC to make it more effective. We can propose regular meetings, joint economic projects, youth exchange programs, and collective responses to international challenges. We should also promote unity among Muslim nations, instead of taking sides in their internal rivalries. Our goal should be to lead through wisdom, not through power.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a platform where Pakistan, China, Russia, and Central Asian nations work together on security, economy, and culture. This is a golden opportunity for Pakistan to improve its regional diplomacy. Through the SCO, we can work on counter-terrorism, regional connectivity, energy projects, and digital cooperation. We can also improve our relations with countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Iran.
Unfortunately, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has been weak due to the conflict between Pakistan and India. However, we must not give up. Pakistan should continue calling for the revival of SAARC because regional trade, education partnerships, and cultural understanding are important for lasting peace. Even small steps – like student exchanges or joint health programs – can create positive momentum.
Multilateral diplomacy is also about engaging with non-traditional partners. Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia are full of rising economies and open societies. Pakistan should expand its diplomatic missions and trade offices in these regions. We must participate in regional conferences, attend business forums, and promote Pakistani products, culture, and tourism.
At the same time, our embassies should promote educational exchanges, medical cooperation, and cultural festivals to present a better image of Pakistan. Soft diplomacy is a powerful tool in building trust and friendship.
No foreign policy can succeed unless a country is strong at home. To become a respected global player, Pakistan must improve its governance, economy, education system, and rule of law. Diplomats cannot do their job properly if there is instability and confusion within the country. We need a foreign policy guided by a clear national vision, supported by parliament, civil society, and all state institutions.
Moreover, our foreign ministry needs greater investment in training, research, and modern technology. Diplomacy in today’s world is complex. Our diplomats must understand digital diplomacy, international economics, cybersecurity, and environmental law. We must build a 21st-century foreign service that can compete with the best in the world.
Foreign policy is not just the job of the government. Students, scholars, and the general public must also be educated about international affairs. Universities should offer courses in foreign relations, diplomacy, and global studies. Think tanks and media outlets should organize public discussions and publish policy research. When people understand foreign policy, they can contribute better to national decisions and debates.
In conclusion, Pakistan stands at a turning point. The world is full of challenges, but also full of opportunities. If we act wisely, we can become a respected country known not just for its military strength, but for its diplomacy, intelligence, and positive contributions to the world.
A strong and smart foreign policy must now go beyond old rivalries and narrow alliances. We must become leaders in global cooperation, defenders of peace and justice, and promoters of regional and international unity. Multilateral diplomacy is not just an option – it is the only path to a stronger, more stable, and more respected Pakistan.
