Pakistan – In the Eye of the Storm

‘Pakistan has been in the limelight for the last few years as it is a happening place. The plans of US exit from Afghanistan and the redrawing the chess board, civil and military relationship in the country and the future of democracy are the issues which are arresting the attention of the strategists and policy analysts the world over. However, these are tough times for Pakistan and one wrong decision could have long lasting repercussions. Though, it may be carefully predicted that the global peace will be closely hinged to what happens in AfPak (Afghanistan-Pakistan) region in the next few years. UK and EU in particular should focus on empowering the civil society in Pakistan as it is quite fragile and it needs international support to reduce militancy and radicalisation. However any unfortunate adventure like the recent NATO strikes may prove devastating and catastrophic for civil society, peace and democracy in Pakistan. We should not forget that peace in Pakistan is imperative to the global peace’.

These thoughts were expressed by Toaha Qureshi MBE, Chairman Forum for International Relations Development while delivering a key note speech to the seminar ‘Pakistan – in the eye of the storm’, organised by Leeds Metropolitan University Pakistan Society. Former President Pervez Musharraf was the second speaker to address the occasion. Mr. Musharraf gave the background of his decision as the president to join the US led War on Terror in 2001. He defended the strategic decision vehemently and termed that it was taken in the interest of country. However, he condemned the recent NATO strikes and asserted that Pakistan was free to take any step on diplomatic level as the interest of country was the supreme policy directive. A long and interactive question and answer session ensued at the end of both the speeches.

Sundas Malik, President Leeds Metropolitan Pakistan Society welcomes the guests. Arif Malik, Programme Director Forum for International Relations Development introduced the audience to the research initiatives on global security led by FIRD. Usman Yousaf and Saad Sultan represented Pakistan Youth Foundation in the seminar. A large number of international students, faculty and local Pakistanis attended the event.