145 research outputs found
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TAIWAN DILEMMA: A FLASHPOINT FOR THE GLOBAL PEACE
Full text linkWith its multilayered complexities, Taiwan is not just a contentious issue but a potential flashpoint for war between China and the United States (US). Since 1949, Taiwan’s politics has oscillated between its unique status of UNSC’s permanent membership and veto power to its present status of de facto sovereignty. Despite losing its UN membership in 1971, Taiwan maintains a de facto sovereign status, which can lead to conflict at any moment. China, the US, and Taiwan maintain conflicting views over the future status and resolution of the Taiwan issue. Taiwanese prefer independent and separate identity. China demands Taiwan’s reunification with the mainland. The US pursues an unclear policy of whether, in case of aggression from China on Taiwan, the US would defend Taiwan or not. While there has been relative peace, China’s rapid rise, Taiwan’s preference against unification, declining US deterrence, and ongoing Sino-US major power rivalry increase the likelihood of forceful unification. The US policy of “Strategic Ambiguity”—an acknowledgement of the One-China policy and commitment to Taiwan’s defence—further exacerbates the risk of war over Taiwan.
Bibliography Entry
Khan, Aamir Hussain. 2024. "Taiwan Dilemma: A Flashpoint for the Global Peace." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 123-140
A CASE FOR ENHANCING THE FRANCO-AUSTRALIAN ALLIANCE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC
Full text linkIn a contested Indo-Pacific region with a rising and assertive China militarily and economically, Australia must look beyond the US as the sole guarantor of its security. Australia realises the importance of maintaining the US–Australia alliance, but it must also seek other like-minded nations to ensure peace and prosperity in the region. The potential development of an enhanced Franco-Australian partnership in the Indo-Pacific presents a promising alliance against the backdrop of heightened US-China rivalry, concerns over maritime security, challenges to sovereignty and economic prosperity. Australia, as a small to medium nation in the South Pacific, must develop and expand its geostrategic partnerships. As Australia seeks to grow, expand or reinforce existing partnerships within a contested and competitive environment, the potential benefits of an enhanced Franco-Australian alliance in the Indo-Pacific are significant and worthy of careful consideration.
Bibliography Entry
McCann, Edward. 2024. "A Case for Enhancing the Franco-Australian Alliance in the Indo-Pacific." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 58-74
INDIA-MIDDLE EAST-EUROPE CORRIDOR (IMEC): RHETORIC, REALITIES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PAKISTAN
Full text linkThis research article explores the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) to ascertain whether it is a myth or a reality. It also examines its transparency, timeliness, and primary objectives. Against the backdrop of instability in the Middle East, mainly arising from the ongoing Gaza situation, the study assesses the regional and global implications of the IMEC, considering arguments both in favour and against the initiative. Nevertheless, the problem has a similar impact on all such ventures as China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since the successful realisation is contingent upon the stable and enabling regional environment. This exploration suffers from the challenge of access to authentic sources. Given the contemporary nature of the subject matter, this study will primarily rely on secondary literature. Employing an Intergovernmentalism theoretical approach, this research delves into the dynamics of IMEC, discussing its intended objectives and challenges. The central argument contends that a meticulous analysis of the corridor\u27s cause and effect on Pakistan\u27s economic and geostrategic interests is imperative. The IMEC initiative exhibits the potential of a relatively cheap system, enhancing contemporary transportation infrastructure. However, the study asserts that the IMEC presents an obvious threat to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the BRI, potentially compromising Pakistan\u27s economic and strategic interests. The paper adopts a nuanced perspective, emphasising that IMEC and BRI contrast in strategic planning and development approaches. Should the IMEC materialise according to its envisaged plan, it will yield substantial diplomatic, strategic, and economic benefits for India. The article concludes by underscoring the challenges faced by IMEC, including coordination complexities, financial constraints for some participating nations, and potential geopolitical tensions affecting corridor operations.
Bibliography Entry
Khan, Raza Ali. 2024. "India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC): Rhetoric, Realities and Implications for Pakistan." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 75-92
SAUDI-IRAN PEACE AGREEMENT: REGIONAL IMPLICATIONS AND PROSPECTS FOR PAKISTAN
Full text linkThe landmark peace deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia brokered by China has ended years of hostility between the two regional arch-rivals. The peace agreement is expected to ease the regional tension and bring peace and stability. The warming up of relations may also lead to the end of proxy wars in Yemen, Syria and Iraq. China’s emergence as a non-hegemonic and reliable extra-regional actor/guarantor would stabilise the regional security environment. This development directly impacts Pakistan as it has good relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China. The peace agreement holds great prospects for Pakistan through investment, trade, joint production, corridor connectivity and joint consortium. However, while the prospects are bright, there are many challenges to harness these opportunities fully.
Bibliography Entry
Hussain, Nazir. 2024. "Saudi-Iran Peace Agreement: Regional Implications and Prospects for Pakistan." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 16-29
THE ENIGMA OF PAKISTAN\u27S NUCLEAR DETERRENCE: AN ALTERNATE PERSPECTIVE
Full text linkPakistan has developed its nuclear and missile programmes primarily in response to perceived threats from India. Pakistani officials claim that these capabilities are for self-defence, aiming to deter India from initiating a war. However, Indian military strategists have consistently explored options to overcome these deterrent measures. Applying the theoretical models of the “Concept of Deterrence”, “Agreed Battles”, and “Iterated Game Theory”, existing gaps in Pakistan\u27s understanding and projection of deterrence against India, coupled with its displayed behaviour, have been analysed. It has been found that the current pattern is bolstering confidence in the Indian leadership that the application of military instruments against Pakistan is possible and will achieve political goals. The key to addressing this issue lies in Pakistan, recognising that deterrence is ongoing. Effectively managing nuclear deterrence involves a strategic interplay of intent, capability, and communication, with a crucial emphasis on continual adaptation to maintain effectiveness.
Bibliography Entry
Amin, Aezaz Aizad. 2024. "The Enigma of Pakistan\u27s Nuclear Deterrence: An Alternate Perspective." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 109-122
ANALYSING CONVENTIONAL DETERRENCE IN A NUCLEARISED SOUTH ASIA
Full text linkThis article advances the debate on the dynamics and effectiveness of conventional deterrence in a nuclearised South Asia. Conventional deterrence is primarily based on the precept of dissuasion, playing an integral part in states’ defence policies. It leverages conventional military capabilities and the adept use of military strategy to dissuade opponents from initiating major campaigns and escalations into full-blown war. The study validates the role of conventional deterrence by carefully examining two India-Pakistan sub-cases: the 1999 Limited Kargil War and the 2019 Balakot Aerial Confrontation. Through these two sub-cases, the research elucidates the complex relationship between numerical strength and intelligent military planning in denying opponents their military objectives and preventing the employment of nuclear weapons.
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Mehmood, Nasir and Syeda Zainab Asif. 2024. "Analysing Conventional Deterrence in a Nuclearized South Asia." Margalla Papers 28 (2): 14-32
GAZA UNDER SIEGE: ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER DURING ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT, SUGGESTIONS AND SOLUTIONS
Full text linkThe war in Gaza imposed by Zionist Israel has caused a substantial human loss. At the same time, this war had a disastrous environmental effect. Massive environmental destruction is reported. Vast fields, orchards, and green areas have been destroyed due to the Israeli invasion. The water management system has been devastated, forcing residents of Gaza to use contaminated water. Emissions from military hardware have added to environmental vows. Though human loss and suffering cannot be compensated, and after sympathising with Gaza civilians as a sacred duty, the next important obligation is to stop environmental destruction in the strip and to think about how to restore it. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and other organisations are working, but there is room for further improvement. This paper aims to find short and long-term solutions to the restoration of Gaza’s environmental infrastructure, including water management, fields, orchards, and eco-friendly reconstruction of buildings. In addition, the article explores Pakistan’s role in this conflict as well as Israel’s Eco crimes and probes whether Israel is guilty of Ecocide (Environmental genocide).
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Khan, Waqas Ahmed and Kamil Shehzad Bakhsh. 2024. "Gaza under Siege: Environmental Disaster during Israel-Palestine Conflict, Suggestions and Solutions." Margalla Papers 28 (2): 78-94
ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES (SEZS): WORKABLE STRATEGIES FOR PAKISTAN
Full text linkSpecial Economic Zones (SEZs) form part of the industrial growth strategies of the respective countries to stimulate economic growth and community development. China has emerged as the most prosperous country in developing SEZs for long-term economic and social transformations of its people. Bangladesh, treading its path, achieved long-term foreign direct investments and developed its SEZs. Indian development of SEZs faced problems but contributed to attracting FDIs and triggering exports. SEZs Act 2016 in Pakistan laid the outlines for developing and regulating SEZs in Pakistan. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with integrated SEZs can be a potential economic growth stimulus. Critical Success Factors (CSF) like bold policy initiatives, customised designs, correct location with proficient and effective management, and institutional protocols through internal connectivity and integration can be the recipe for the success of SEZs in Pakistan.
Bibliography Entry
Iqbal, Muhammad Zafar and Bashir Ahmad. 2024. "Economic and Social Development through Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Workable Strategies for Pakistan." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 180-197
RECALIBRATING US POLICY IN SOUTH ASIA POST-AFGHANISTAN: STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS FOR PAKISTAN
Full text linkThe United States of America has held a significant position in global politics as a superpower from the end of the Cold War to the present day. The geopolitics of South Asia has been of strategic importance to world powers due to their short and long-term security and economic interests. The United States (US) approach toward the region has been a cause of concern for states, particularly India and Pakistan. As US interests change, it alters its regional alliance strategies, impacting the bilateral relations of regional states. Despite being an important non-NATO ally of the US, Pakistan could not secure its vital interests during the Cold War and after 9/11, leading to a relationship marked by suspicion and mistrust. On the other hand, India, though not a Cold War ally and not a frontline state in the US campaign against terrorism, has enjoyed a special status with the US. The evolving dynamics of South Asia and China’s increasing role in the region have brought India and the US into closer cooperation, resulting in deep and widespread strategic engagement. This paper focuses on the implications of the US changing role in the region, the complexities following its withdrawal from Afghanistan, and its continued close ties with India. It also suggests that Pakistan should analyse its new security, political, and economic challenges and develop a comprehensive policy to address them appropriately.
Bibliography Entry
Gul, Shereen. 2024. "Recalibrating US Policy in South Asia Post-Afghanistan: Strategic Implications for Pakistan." Margalla Papers 28 (2): 119-131
MODI’S HINDUTVA POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON INDO-PAK RELATIONS
Full text linkThis research paper explores the Hindutva ideology of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by analysing its implications for Pakistan. BJP’s ascension to power led the Hindu Nationalist government to implement the Hindutva ideological rhetoric. With a substantial Muslim population living in India and rivalry with Pakistan, such policies have significant implications for the Indian Muslim community as well as for Pakistan. These Hindutva-driven policies have not only raised concern regarding minorities\u27 rights in India, affecting Kashmiri Muslims but also raising security challenges for Pakistan. In the past decade, the legislative and executive bodies have been actively engaged in promoting this ideology, as evidenced by the amendment of national citizenship law, growing riots against Muslims, and the Indian government\u27s policy towards Pakistan. By analysing the recent minorities-related events, this paper seeks to assess the impact of the policies of the BJP government towards the Indian Muslim community and its interaction with Pakistan.
Bibliography Entry
Xiaolian, Shi and Uzma Siraj and Alla Ud Din. 2024. "Modi’s Hindutva Policy and Its Impact on Indo-Pak Relations." Margalla Papers 28 (1): 1-15