The Western question in Pakistan Foreign Policy: Sources of Stress and Strain in Afghanistan

Abstract

This study aims to conduct an analysis of foreign policy challenges for Pakistan from Afghanistan within context of “Stress and Strain Framework”. The historical period of time categorized into five distinctive geopolitical features: pre-USSR invasion in Afghanistan, war against USSR and alliance with the US, post US withdrawal and Taliban rule, US invasion in post 9/11 era and finally, post US withdrawal and indigenous Afghan regime. Employing “Stress and Strain framework”, the research endeavours to elaborate several key research questions: How major powers interventions in Afghanistan change the geopolitical environment of south Asia? What policy imperatives Pakistan consider min imizing stress in emerging geopolitics with reference to Afghanistan in the region? As to what extent does Afghanistan become a source of strain for Pakistan foreign policy during different epochs of history? How changing geopolitical alliances among regional and great powers shape geopolitics of South Asia and how these changes affect the global political environment? The findings of the study reveal that the geopolitical environment is shaped by geopolitical alliances of regional powers with global powers and Pakistan follow a distinct approach during each period based on great power alliances it follows. The study underscores the importance of considering alternate foreign policy choices in scoring national interest. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of cultivating an inclusive geopolitical environment that nurtures trust and respect for each sovereign state in the region.