POST 9/11 FOREIGN POLICY

Introduction:

The September 11, 2001 attacks reshaped global politics dramatically, prompting
the US to declare a "War on Terror." The attacks resulted in the deaths of over
3,000 people in the United States and caused economic losses exceeding a
hundred billion dollars. Pakistan, strategically located with historical ties to
Afghanistan, became a crucial ally in the ensuing global effort against terrorism.
Despite initial hesitation, Pakistan joined the War on Terror due to security
threats and economic dependencies. It led to substantial US aid amounting to
over $3.5 billion in 2002 alone. However, Pakistan's decision to align with the US
also had significant domestic costs. The country suffered the loss of over 60,000
lives and experienced economic decline and increased instability and terrorism
within its borders. Balancing national security with international expectations
posed complex challenges for Pakistan's leadership, shaping its foreign policy and
security strategies profoundly.

Policy Planning by Pakistan:

In Gen. Musharaf’s own words, the 9/11 “came as a thunderbolt” presenting

acute challenges as well as opportunities. There was intense international
pressure on Pakistan to join the War on Terror. The US and its allies viewed
Pakistan as a crucial partner in the fight against terrorism. US President has made
a statement that “Either with us or against us”. Pakistan had to avoid opposition
to US policy, and a refusal to cooperate would not only be ineffectual but might
also provoke US hostility, it was necessary to evolve a strategy approach, keeping
in the forefront both national interest and the need for a realistic assessment of
the obtaining environment.
If Pakistan didn’t cooperate, Pakistan might be bracketed with the Taliban,
declared a ‘terrorist state’, and subjected to attacks to neutralize resistance.
Pakistan and Azad Kashmir territory could be attacked under the pretext of
eliminating terrorist bases. The crisis called for a policy that balanced global and
regional constraints, immediate imperatives and long-term interests, national
priorities and the norms of an international order based on principles of
international law. Pakistan's decision to join the War on Terror was largely driven
by compulsive choice, given its dependence on US aid and the threat of
international isolation. Thus, Pakistan joined US in War on Terror (WOT) as a
Non-NATO Strategic Ally. Pakistan had provided all Strategic Assistance to USA in
its Military Operation in Afghanistan termed as “Operation Enduring Freedom”
on 7th Oct 2001.

National Interests of Pakistan:

Strategically, Pakistan aimed to protect its territorial integrity, prevent Indian

influence in Afghanistan, and maintain military capabilities and nuclear
deterrence. Protecting Pakistan's nuclear weapons program from potential
threats or limitations imposed by the US and India, to maintain a credible nuclear
deterrent and ensure regional stability. The US sought to balance Pakistan's
relations with neighboring countries, particularly India, to avoid escalation of
tensions that could undermine regional stability.

Economically, Pakistan sought to secure US aid and economic assistance,

promote trade and investment in the region. Pakistan’s aim was to receive debt
relief and financial support from international financial institutions such as the
International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Pakistan sought to
enhance its trade relations with countries involved in the coalition against
terrorism, particularly the United States and European nations. Improving trade
ties was seen as a way to boost economic growth, attract foreign investment, and
diversify its economic partnerships beyond traditional allies like China and Saudi
Arabia.

Pakistan also aims to balance regional power dynamics, particularly with India
and Iran. Improved relations with the United States and other Western countries
have sometimes strained Pakistan's relations with Iran and impacted its regional
alignments. Pakistan wanted to pursue active diplomacy in international forums
to serve its political interests by garnering diplomatic support, addressing
regional disputes, and promoting economic cooperation.

Outcomes of Foreign Policy

The outcomes of each objective were mixed. Pakistan maintained its influence in
Afghanistan and prevented Indian expansion. Pakistan's diplomatic relations with
the United States and Western countries improved, leading to enhanced
international legitimacy and influence in global forums. Pakistan's role in
facilitating peace talks in Afghanistan and counterterrorism efforts was
recognized internationally. But, despite efforts to combat terrorism, Pakistan
continued to face internal security challenges, including terrorist attacks and
insurgency in certain regions. Suicide bombings have resulted in a large number
of casualties, including civilians, security personnel, and militants themselves.
The United States conducted drone strikes in Pakistan's tribal areas to target
Taliban and Al-Qaeda operatives. The attacks have also caused extensive damage
to infrastructure, public buildings, and religious sites. The focus on security and
strategic interests often overshadowed humanitarian concerns, such as refugee
crises and internal displacement due to conflict and military operations.

Appreciating Pakistan’s key role as a ‘frontline state’ in the war on terrorism, the
US, the EU, and Japan dismantled nuclear and democratic sanctions and resumed
assistance to Pakistan. They agreed to write off or reschedule the debt. US wrote
off 1.6 billion dollars in debt. Pakistan attracted foreign investment, particularly
through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This initiative
aimed at enhancing infrastructure, connectivity, and economic development,
contributing to potential long-term economic growth. However, Pakistan's
reliance on external financial assistance and loans increased its debt burden and
dependency on foreign donors, impacting long-term economic sustainability. It
also led to the closure of international companies. The country experienced a
decline in foreign investment due to security concerns, which hindered economic
growth. Additionally, Pakistan's tourism industry suffered as security threats
deterred visitors. The overall economic impact included job losses, reduced
trade, and decreased investor confidence, contributing to Pakistan's economic
instability during this period.

Pakistan perceived India as its primary regional adversary and hoped that aligning
with the USA would provide leverage in its ongoing disputes with India,
particularly over Kashmir. However, while Pakistan expected significant
diplomatic and military backing from the USA against India, the outcomes were
mixed. The USA did engage diplomatically with both Pakistan and India, but its
partnership with India, formalized in 2005 with the Civil Nuclear Agreement,
signaled a deepening relationship that went beyond Pakistan's expectations.
Drone strikes by the US within Pakistani territory without formal approval caused
public outrage and heightened perceptions of infringement on national
sovereignty. This strained relations between the Pakistani government and its
populace. Pakistan's alignment with US policies led to political polarization within
the country, with factions either supporting or opposing the government's
cooperation with the US. This polarization weakened political cohesion and
governance.

Conclusion:
Pakistan's post-9/11 foreign policy yielded mixed outcomes, reflecting both
strategic gains and significant challenges. While aligning with the US bolstered
military cooperation and international recognition for counterterrorism efforts,
executional shortcomings, governance issues, and sovereignty concerns over
drone strikes undermined its effectiveness. The policy's impact was further
complicated by domestic instability, economic strain, and societal divisions
exacerbated by terrorism and security operations. Thus, assessing Pakistan's
foreign policy during this period as a clear success or failure is nuanced,
highlighting a complex interplay of strategic decisions and institutional
challenges.

Future Roadmap:

Pakistan's foreign policy post-9/11 has been heavily influenced by its strategic
position and global imperatives, particularly in relation to Afghanistan and
counterterrorism efforts. Looking ahead, Pakistan will continue to prioritize
robust cooperation with the US and NATO allies in intelligence sharing and
military collaboration to combat regional militant threats, particularly along its
Afghan border. Diplomatically, Pakistan aims to facilitate peace in Afghanistan
through engagement with Afghan factions and international stakeholders while
managing relations with India to reduce tensions. Economically, Pakistan will
deepen ties with China through projects like CPEC, diversify trade partnerships,
and focus on energy security through domestic energy projects. Humanitarian
aid, infrastructure development, and cultural diplomacy will enhance Pakistan's
global influence, while navigating challenges related to civil liberties and human
rights in its policy formulations.