I can agree that Pakistan's foreign policy is not decided here, but this forum has been able to voice the opinion of the more educated segment of our society. Many members have advocate good relations with the GCC but also suggested an end to our seemingly servile attitude when the same gulf monarchies are concerned.
The second point is something that I can not deny either. Each administration brings in its own ideas for foreign policy and this is not unique to Pakistan.
The third point, however, can be challenged on many fronts. For one thing, Pakistan is no longer the modern-ideal for the Gulf states. We have been transformed into a proxy/buffer against Iran. The GCC will not consider a war in their own countries, but Pakistani casualties are pretty much acceptable for them in case of a confrontation.
My idea is to have great working relations with the GCC. Apart from oil, they have a high level of influence in the White House which we can utilize. What I do oppose is a certain leaning to favour the Sheikhs while overlooking our national interests.
well said! I concur Pakistan's national interests are sacrosanct and lie above all other nations. The question here, however is, how will Pasha's new job effect Pakistan? If it favors Pakistan then he'll go and If it doesn't I'm sure he'd never take it anyway.
My personal leanings are it's a good thing - the more of our own people we have around the "sheikh" the better.