Lahore, The Center for Security, Strategy and Policy Research (CSSPR) at The University of Lahore (UOL), in collaboration with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Pakistan office, has published a significant report on Pakistan’s approach to geo-economics, highlighting the nation’s strategic initiatives in regional connectivity and developmental partnerships. This report marks a pivotal step in advancing the understanding of Pakistan’s position and potential in the global economic landscape.
According to The University of Lahore, the report titled “Pakistan’s Geo-economics Pivot: Strategies, Opportunities, and Challenges” was co-authored by Dr. Rabia Akhtar, Director of CSSPR and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and Dr. Moeed Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University. The publication is a culmination of a year-long project initiated under an MoU signed between CSSPR and FES Pakistan in 2022, focusing on research into strategic issues in Pakistan and the region.
The comprehensive report is the result of extensive research, including interviews, roundtable discussions, and secondary sources. It contextualizes geo-economics for Pakistan, a concept not thoroughly unpacked in the country’s National Security Strategy (NSP). It argues that for Pakistan, geo-economics involves leveraging its strategic location to foster interdependencies through regional connectivity and mutually beneficial development partnerships, steering clear of any sinister implications.
The report underlines the importance of completing the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and highlights the need to prioritize various regional connectivity initiatives with Central Asian Republics (CARs). It also advocates for increased bilateral and trilateral engagements with Iran and Afghanistan, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the necessity of making South Asia more connected.
In terms of development partnerships, the report recommends strategies for sustainably enhancing exports, attracting export-led foreign direct investments, and boosting remittances. It calls for comprehensive reforms at policy, psychological, and attitudinal levels and a strategic reorientation of Pakistan’s diplomacy towards economic diplomacy. This approach aims to explore economic, trade, and business opportunities while achieving political objectives.
The report was launched at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute’s (SDPI) 26th Strategic Development Conference, where Dr. Akhtar and Dr. Yusuf shared key findings. Distinguished guests at the launching ceremony spoke on the report’s focus on structural reforms, agreeing on the necessity for Pakistan to commit to consistently improving policy frameworks and implementation to realize a successful pivot to geo-economics.
The publication of this report by CSSPR and Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung provides crucial insights into Pakistan’s geo-economic strategy and its role in shaping the nation’s future economic trajectory.