Tag: (ISSI)

Islamabad, September 04, 2021 (PPI-OT):China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Human Security Institute (THSI) on September 3, 2021 in an MoU Signing ceremony. Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC and Mr. Rafique Ahmed Qureshi, DG-THIS signed the MoU on behalf of both institutes. MoU between CPSC, ISSI and THSI has established institutional linkages between both institutes for collaborative research and dialogue on issues of mutual interests.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Talat Shabbir said “human security has emerged as an important topic in the contemporary era” and two institutes must find ways and means for practical cooperation. Meanwhile, Ambassador Fouzia Nasreen, representing THSI remarked that there is a need to study human security from different perspectives and this MoU provides a platform for undertaking in-depth research and dialogue.

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, Director General Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, ISSI in his concluding remarks appreciated both sides for concluding the MoU and hoped that it would deepen cooperation between the Institute and the THIS in the domain of human security.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/

Islamabad, September 04, 2021 (PPI-OT):The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized a webinar on Saudi Vision 2030: Opportunities for Pakistan. The distinguished speakers included: Ambassador Ali Awad Alasiri, former Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the OIC, Senator Sehar Kamran, Patron in Chief, Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies-CPGS, Dr. Muhammad Azam Roomi, Professor of Entrepreneurship at Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College (MBSC) of Business and Entrepreneurship, King Abdullah Economic City. Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Director General ISSI, and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BOG, ISSI, also took part in the discussion.

During her opening remarks, Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA said that Vision 2030 is an all-inclusive document, which follows principles of sustainable development and caters to the future needs of the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has identified diversification of the economy as a leading factor to achieve its goals of boosting non-oil sectors and exports. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have always shared close ties, primarily based on religious affinity. They also share decades-long strategic ties and have on numerous occasions supported each other both diplomatically and economically. Hence, Pakistan is well placed to benefit from Saudi economic reforms and the opportunities provided by Vision 2030.

Ambassador Aizaz in his welcome remarks said that the whole region is buzzing with the theme of geo-economics. Saudi Vision 2030 is presenting a new face of the Kingdom, one where the Kingdom is more focused on economic development. Saudi Arabia is opening up for the world and the Saudi society is becoming more vibrant as compared to the past. Moreover, its economy is being diversified by the introduction of new avenues for economic growth rather than just relying on oil exports. Pakistan should benefit from this shift of Saudi Arabia towards geo-economics. At the moment, the Saudi economy is thriving and Pakistan would do well to explore ways to benefit from it, he said.

Ambassador Ali Awad Alasiri said that Saudi Vision 2030 is a big achievement for the Kingdom. He also said that both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have seen a very big transformation in their relationship under the dynamic leadership of Crown Prince Muhammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Imran Khan. Vision 2030 offers a number of economic opportunities to Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to further flourish their relations. There are a number of economic opportunities which are emerging for Pakistan. Case in point being how Pakistan can send its technicians to provide support in the mega project – NEOM city.

Moreover, both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia can sign a number of agreements in areas like agriculture, health, labour etc. He suggested that the chambers of commerce in Pakistan must be more proactive to market the products of Pakistan in Saudi Arabia and at the same time both nations should lower trade barriers for each other as well as improve communication. Furthermore, both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia should think of legal and technical methods to ensure that both parties are safe and have an equal share in the advantages of bilateral trade. It is high time that the relationship of love and affection between the two countries is translated into concrete economic activity. At the moment economic relations are limited but Pakistan should not squander the opportunity of actively benefiting from the Saudi Vision 2030, he concluded.

Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh was optimistic that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would flourish under Vision 2030. He said that both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia already have a concrete base in their relations which stems from strong historical and political relations as well as strong security and economic ties. Both countries should pay more attention to the problems in public and private sectors on both sides and try to identify the fault lines which impede the economic activity between the two states.

These problems, he said, must be overcome with effective measures. If done in an efficient manner, this will open windows of new opportunities for economic growth. The investment absorption capacity of Pakistan is huge especially under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Besides the 20 billion dollars Saudi Arabia has already pledged for investments, the Kingdom can also increase focus on other avenues for investments, he said.

Senator Sehar Kamran, said that Saudi Vision 2030 is a comprehensive document. The Vision aims to reduce the dependency of the Kingdom on oil and diversify its economy and aims to build the future of Saudi Arabia around three themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. She went on to underline the principles behind the vision and objectives aimed to achieve under the Vision. She said that Pakistan has always been a trusted partner of Saudi Arabia.

Both countries can benefit from their bilateral relations in a number of areas. Saudi Arabia can benefit from the vast experience of Pakistan in the IT sector. In this regard, it can get help from the Pakistani technicians in developing the IT sector, especially in NEOM city. She also highlighted that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia can cooperate in the production of military equipment. She further highlighted that there is vast potential in research and development, academic collaborations, student exchange programs and in the health and agriculture sector. Pakistan can also provide sports goods to Saudi Arabia. Senator Kamran proposed the establishment of a “Saudi-Pak friendship Centre” on the model of “Pak-China friendship Centre” which might prove beneficial for deepening bilateral relations especially economic ties.

Dr. Muhammad Azam Roomi, was of the view that Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College (MBSC) of Business and Entrepreneurship, King Abdullah Economic City, itself is a tool to achieve the objective of Saudi Vision 2030. He was of the view that Saudi Vision offers a number of opportunities to Pakistan which it can exploit. He said that over the period of time Saudi Arabia has evolved and it has learnt to benefit from effective entrepreneurship.

In this regard, the Kingdom has come up with a solution revolving around the principle of effectuation. He also highlighted that Pakistan should not only focus on how Saudi Arabia can help Pakistan but should go beyond this. Pakistan should not only focus on the opportunities arising out of Saudi vision 2030, but should learn and try to emulate the Saudi Vision 2030 model as it is one of the best visions in the world at the moment.

Ambassador Khalid Mahmood concluded the session by saying that Saudi Vision 2030 has emerged with a number of new economic opportunities for the bilateral economic ties of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. While highlighting some of the opportunities under Vision 2030 he said that the Vision also emphasizes on sports and since Pakistan is a leading sports goods manufacturer, Pakistan can benefit from the emerging Saudi market.

He also highlighted that CPEC has also brought in new opportunities for Pakistan to attract investments from Saudi Arabia. Collaboration in defence production, labour market, agriculture, climate change and IT are some of the sectors where the two nations can also work together. Ambassador Khalid highlighted that Pakistan needs to take practical measures instead of just setting up councils and holding meetings. He also suggested the deployment of special envoys to focus and explore opportunities for Pakistan which are emerging from the programs such as Saudi Vision 2030.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/

Islamabad, September 04, 2021 (PPI-OT):The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted the sixth Think Tank Forum under the theme, “The Situation in Afghanistan: Options for Pakistan.” The forum was a virtual event and was attended by representatives of think tanks and the heads of Area Study Centers from across the country. The Chief Guest at the occasion, Honourable Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan, in his keynote address stated that the happenings in our neighbourhood have far-reaching implications for the region and that we want a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan. He stated that the situation in Afghanistan is fragile, with the loss of lives in terrorist attacks; therefore, the international community has a shared responsibility.

He further said that the instability in Afghanistan is not in our interest and that we reiterate our support to all the ethnic communities in the country. In the quest for finding regional solutions, Pakistan has engaged with the regional countries. The change in the Afghan situation has progressed at an unprecedented pace and the West’s presumptions failed, as they were not apprised about the reality just as they should have been. Moreover, he said that the Afghans must decide their fate and Pakistan is supportive of that and that this is a shared responsibility for the international community.

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, Director General ISSI, in his welcome remarks stated that this convention of think tanks and academia is intended to bridge the gap between these and the executive arm of the state of Pakistan. While shedding light on the topic, Ambassador Chaudhry said that Pakistan’s stance regarding Afghanistan has been vindicated and that a political solution is the only answer for lasting peace in Afghanistan and the region at large. He further said that the region must make meaningful efforts in this regard.

Representatives of numerous Think Tanks and the heads of Area Study Centers throughout Pakistan, while speaking on the issue were of the view that Pakistan must address the challenge regarding its image and must start engaging with the Afghan media. It was also said that Pakistan must have a proactive and pragmatic approach regarding Afghanistan. Some of the participants were of the view that Pakistan must closely watch how India-US relations will play out in the region. The 6th Think Tank Forum concluded with the resolve to consolidate the recommendations of the discussion and carry further engagement in this regard.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/

Islamabad, September 02, 2021 (PPI-OT):China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of International Relations at University of Peshawar on August 31, 2021 in an MOU signing ceremony. Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC and Dr. Syed Hussain Shaheed Soherwordi, Chairman Department of International Relations signed the MoU on behalf of both institutes.

MoU between CPSC, ISSI and International Relations Department at University of Peshawar has established institutional linkage between both institutes for academic exchange, research collaboration and dialogue on issues of mutual interest. Ambassador Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, Director General Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, ISSI in his concluding remarks appreciated both sides for concluding the MoU and hoped that it would deepen cooperation between the Institute and the University of Peshawar.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/

Islamabad, August 31, 2021 (PPI-OT):The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) had a Panel Discussion on ‘Conversations on the Afghan Peace Process: Uzbekistan’s Role in Afghanistan’ which is the fourth in a series of conversations CAMEA will be having on Afghanistan – under its Conversations on the Afghan Peace Process series.

The distinguished speakers included: Mr. Ibraheem Bahiss, Consultant with Crisis Group’s Asia Program, Dr. Baktyor Mustafaev, Deputy Director of the International Institute of Central Asia Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Dr. Akram Umarov, Senior Research Fellow – The University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Tashkent, Dr. Vladimir Paramonov, Director / Founder, Central Eurasian Analytical Group, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Ambassador Masood Khalid, Former Pakistan Counsellor to Uzbekistan from 1995-98. Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Director General ISSI, and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BOG, ISSI, also took part in the discussion.

During her opening remarks, Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA said since the Taliban takeover, with the exception of terrorist attacks by the ISKP, followed by the US drone strikes against the group, the transition process has been relatively smooth. So far, the Taliban have presented a moderate face, where they have allowed the re-opening of schools and return of women to work – moreover, there have been talks of forming an inclusive government. While there are some signs of resistance in the Panjsheer areas, by and far all political Afghan factions appear to be willing to work with the Taliban in an inclusive framework.

However, with the US withdrawal, the real test for Taliban has only just begun. It is imperative for the Taliban to engage with Afghan stakeholders and form a government that is inclusive and representative of all Afghans. Bewildered by instability in Afghanistan, regional actors have come to the forefront to play a more prominent role, and one such country is Uzbekistan, which has played an important role in the Afghan peace process, by engaging with all sides as well as hosting initiatives to help achieve a negotiated settlement. Moreover, Tashkent and Islamabad have a close and coordinated approach towards Afghanistan.

Ambassador Aizaz said that regional countries can play a key role in Afghanistan and Uzbekistan is one such country. He raised four important questions pertaining to the Taliban; will the Taliban be able to establish stability in Afghanistan?, will the world recognize the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, how will the Taliban run the country and lastly, what will be the role of regional countries. While talking about Uzbekistan, he said that under the dynamic leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev a new era of economic prosperity has opened for Uzbekistan, under which the country can play a key role in the prosperity, peace and stability of Afghanistan.

Mr. Ibraheem Bahiss believed that there is unity among international players as well as regional countries when it comes to ensuring that Afghanistan does not become a safe haven for terrorist organizations. All the neighbouring countries are concerned with the peace and stability of Afghanistan. At this stage, the Taliban should satisfy regional countries that they will not face any threats from Afghanistan. A viable strategy for the Taliban is to try and satisfy regional countries instead of trying to satisfy all actors, since the demands of regional countries are lesser than the West and regional countries primarily want to ensure that Afghanistan is not used by terrorists.

With regard to the challenges being faced by the Taliban, Mr. Bahiss said that the Taliban-led regime in Afghanistan will face various challenges like the formation of a government, its structure and their ability to run the country. Along with this another internal challenge which Taliban might face will be satisfaction of Afghans and their acceptance for the new regime.

Dr. Baktyor Mustafaev said that Uzbekistan considers Afghanistan as an integral part of Central Asia. With the changing dynamics in the region, new opportunities for regional connectivity are emerging. The recently held conference in Tashkent in July discussed the various opportunities for regional connectivity of Central and South Asia. Peace and stability in Afghanistan are essential for regional connectivity and it is only possible through intra-afghan reconciliation. Regional countries should adopt a common approach towards Afghanistan. They should work together to bring some kind of joint projects relevant to the infrastructural development of Afghanistan, he said.

Dr. Akram Umarov said that the transformation of Uzbekistan’s foreign policy towards Afghanistan post-2016 is very important. Uzbekistan is now more focused on the economy and connectivity. He was optimistic that the situation in Afghanistan will be settled soon. If the new government in Afghanistan failed to fulfill its commitment then there will be instability and chaos in the region. He mentioned that along with regional connectivity, the internal connectivity of Afghanistan is also imperative. If the country does not unite and connect from within there will be challenges for region as well as regional engagement. At this stage regional ownership of the Afghan issue is important. Moreover, the Taliban should make a moderate strategy to run the country for the long run.

Dr. Vladimir Paramonov said that it could be a new era of development for Afghanistan as well as Central Asia if the Taliban fulfill their promises regarding human rights and inclusiveness. Uzbekistan can play a very active role in the development of Afghanistan especially the northern provinces of Afghanistan by initiating infrastructure projects etc. Russia and China can also play a key role and China could become a key investor in development of Afghanistan in this scenario. Uzbekistan has already been playing a proactive role in Afghanistan as evidenced by the rail route it has developed through Iran and Pakistan. He said that Uzbekistan along with other regional countries, has adopted the policy of “wait and see” and Tashkent will be happy with any projects which will help Afghanistan in developing harmonious relations with its neighbours.

Ambassador Masood Khalid stated that the evolving situation in Afghanistan is of universal concern. He highlighted the significant change in the foreign policy of Uzbekistan, which is more outward-looking as compared to the past, now the country has the capacity to play a role in the region. Since Uzbekistan cannot on its own undertake massive development projects in Afghanistan, therefore a reasonable approach after achieving peace would be for Uzbekistan to collaborate with other regional countries including Pakistan for political and economic development of Afghanistan.

Once peace is restored in Afghanistan, it will increase opportunities for Uzbekistan to deepen ties with the regional countries. While talking about the evolution within the Taliban, he said that the Taliban interpretation of Shariah is very strict which is why it will be very difficult for the Taliban to demote themselves ideologically. Therefore, a drastic and fundamental change cannot be expected. He further stated that a stable Afghanistan is in the collective interest of all the regional countries. China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran and Turkey can play an important role in developing a regional consensus. They can influence the future political dispensation in Afghanistan to have a moderate foreign policy, he said.

Ambassador Khalid Mahmood said that the international recognition of Taliban depends on the form of government that the Taliban form. A new era has dawned now with regard to Afghanistan and the region as a whole. It is for sure that no country wants to intervene in the domestic affairs of Afghanistan, but all want to play a supportive role for peace and stability in Afghanistan as it is in their interest. He also said that a major concern for the neighbouring countries is a possible influx of refugees. So far this fear has not materialized but it remains a concern as the situation is yet not clear. However, the need of the hour is an early return of peace and stability in Afghanistan and to that end there is a great responsibility and role of the neighbouring countries.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/

Islamabad, August 30, 2021 (PPI-OT):Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) represented by its Director General, Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry and Kabul Institute for Peace (KIP), Kabul, Afghanistan represented by its Chairman of the Board, Sardar Nadir Naim signed an MOU on August 25, 2021. This MoU was facilitated by the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the ISSI. Directors of all five Centres of Excellence at ISSI were also present. Cooperation between the two organizations concerns establishment and promotion of regular relationships in academic and research fields in an institutionalized framework.

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry welcomed the signing of this MoU as a constructive and useful collaboration between ISSI and KIP and hoped that this association would produce quality research and dialogue for mutual benefit. He said the signing of this MoU was in step with the desire of both governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan and would supplement the efforts of further forging friendship between the two countries. “We at ISSI through CAMEA, are truly committed to building better understanding and harmony between think-tank communities between Pakistan and Afghanistan”, he said.

Sardar Nadir Naim said that it was a great pleasure to be signing this MoU on academic cooperation with a very respected institution such as ISSI. Through this MoU, he hoped that both KIP and ISSI would be able to cooperate on some of the priorities of mutual interest to Afghanistan and Pakistan, play a role in expanding the existing cooperation between the two nations and hence contribute towards building a relationship of trust and friendship between the two countries.

Ms Amina Khan, Director CAMEA also spoke on the occasion. She hoped that this collaboration would benefit both sides and enhance the bilateral ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan in a concrete manner which will translate into a fruitful partnership which is also mutually beneficial.

For more information, contact:
Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)
Sector F-5/2, Islamabad – 44000, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9202481
Fax: +92-51-9204658
E-mail: strategy@issi.org.pk
Website: http://issi.org.pk/